Rule 46.Petition and Answer; Each One Instrument of Writing

Last verified June 28, 2026

In one sentenceRule 46 requires each pleading — the original petition, every supplemental petition, the original answer, and each supplemental answer — to be contained in a single written instrument.

Full Text of Rule 46

Text size

The original petition, first supplemental petition, second supplemental petition, and every other, shall each be contained in one instrument of writing, and so with the original answer and each of the supplemental answers.

End

Plain-English Summary

Rule 46 keeps each pleading whole. The original petition, each supplemental petition, the original answer, and each supplemental answer must each be a single instrument of writing. You cannot split one pleading across several separate filings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Texas petition be split across multiple documents?

No. Rule 46 requires each petition, answer, and supplemental pleading to be contained in one instrument of writing.

Does Rule 46 apply to answers as well as petitions?

Yes. Rule 46 treats the original answer and each supplemental answer the same way it treats petitions — each must stand as a single instrument of writing.

Can you add a page to a petition already on file instead of filing a new pleading?

No. Rule 46 treats each supplemental petition as its own instrument. To add matter after the original petition, file a supplemental petition as a separate, complete instrument rather than attaching pages to what is already on file.

Source & verification. Rule text and the official Notes and Comments are reproduced verbatim from the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure (Tex. R. Civ. P. 46), published by the Texas Judicial Branch (txcourts.gov). Promulgated by the Supreme Court of Texas. The plain-English summary is original and draws on official sources. Last verified June 28, 2026. · Official source

Also known as: petition and answerone instrument of writingsupplemental petitionTRCP 46