In one sentenceRule 50 requires pleadings to be in numbered paragraphs, each limited so far as practicable to a single set of circumstances, with separate counts where that aids a clear presentation.
Full Text of Rule 50
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All averments of claim or defense shall be made in numbered paragraphs, the contents of each of which shall be limited as far as practicable to a statement of a single set of circumstances; and a paragraph may be referred to by number in all succeeding pleadings, so long as the pleading containing such paragraph has not been superseded by an amendment as provided by Rule 65. Each claim founded upon a separate transaction or occurrence and each defense other than denials shall be stated in a separate count or defense whenever a separation facilitates the clear presentation of the matters set forth.
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Plain-English Summary
Rule 50 sets the format of a pleading's allegations. Every averment of claim or defense goes in numbered paragraphs, each limited as far as practicable to a single set of circumstances. A paragraph can then be referred to by number in later pleadings, unless an amendment has superseded it.
Each claim founded on a separate transaction or occurrence, and each defense other than denials, should be stated in its own count or defense whenever doing so makes the matter clearer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should Texas pleadings be organized?
In numbered paragraphs under Rule 50, each limited to a single set of circumstances, with separate counts for claims on different transactions where that aids clarity.
Can a later pleading refer back to a numbered paragraph from an earlier one?
Yes. Rule 50 lets a paragraph be referred to by number in later pleadings, as long as the pleading containing it has not been superseded by an amendment under Rule 65.
When must claims be split into separate counts under Rule 50?
Whenever separation makes the pleading clearer. Rule 50 calls for each claim founded on a separate transaction or occurrence, and each defense other than a denial, to be stated in its own count when that aids a clear presentation.
Source & verification. Rule text and the official Notes and Comments are reproduced verbatim from the
Texas Rules of Civil Procedure (Tex. R. Civ. P. 50), 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:paragraphs separate statementsnumbered paragraphsseparate countsTRCP 50