Rule 1042.4.Responsive Pleading.
Adopted January 27, 2003 · Not amended since adoption · Last verified June 30, 2026
In one sentenceRule 1042.4 gives a defendant in a professional-liability action until the time set by Rule 1026, or twenty days after service of the certificate of merit, whichever is later, to file a responsive pleading.
Full Text of Rule 1042.4
A defendant against whom a professional liability claim is asserted shall file a responsive pleading within the time required by Rule 1026 or within twenty days after service of the certificate of merit on that defendant, whichever is later.
End
Plain-English Summary
This rule adjusts the answer deadline to account for the certificate of merit. A defendant against whom a professional-liability claim is asserted files a responsive pleading within the time required by Rule 1026, or within twenty days after service of the certificate of merit, whichever is later — so the defendant need not answer before knowing the plaintiff has the required certificate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a defendant have to respond in a malpractice case?
The Rule 1026 time, or twenty days after service of the certificate of merit, whichever is later.
Amendment History
The provisions of this Rule 1042.4 adopted January 27, 2003, effective immediately, 33 Pa.B. 748.
Source & verification. Rule text, the Official Note, and the amendment
history are reproduced verbatim from the Pennsylvania Code, Title 231, the official compilation
of rules adopted by the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania. This rule has not been amended since its adoption. Last verified June 30, 2026. ·
Official text
Also known as: responsive pleading professional liabilityanswer deadline malpractice