Rule 79.The Petition
Last verified June 28, 2026
In one sentenceRule 79 requires the petition to state the parties' names and their residences, if known, along with the contents Rule 47 prescribes.
Full Text of Rule 79
The petition shall state the names of the parties and their residences, if known, together with the contents prescribed in Rule 47 above.
End
Plain-English Summary
Rule 79 sets the basic contents of a petition. It states the names of the parties and their residences, if known, together with the elements required by Rule 47 — fair notice of the cause of action, the jurisdictional-limits statement, the relief range, and a demand for judgment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What must a Texas petition include?
Under Rule 79, the parties' names and residences if known, plus the contents required by Rule 47.
Does a Texas petition have to state where the defendant lives?
Yes, if known. Rule 79 requires the petition to state the parties' residences whenever that information is known.
What rule sets the contents a Texas petition needs beyond names and residences?
Source & verification. Rule text and the official Notes and Comments are reproduced verbatim from the
Texas Rules of Civil Procedure (Tex. R. Civ. P. 79), 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: the petitioncontents of the petitionnames and residencesTRCP 79