Rule 1093.Commencement of Action.
Adopted June 25, 1946 · Last amended June 27, 2017 · Last verified June 30, 2026
In one sentenceAn action of mandamus may be commenced by filing a complaint with the prothonotary, starting the case with the complaint that states the duty sought to be compelled.
Full Text of Rule 1093
An action may be commenced by filing a complaint with the prothonotary.
End
Plain-English Summary
This rule sets how a mandamus action begins: by filing a complaint with the prothonotary. The complaint identifies the public act or duty the plaintiff seeks to compel and the basis for the demand.
Beginning with the complaint puts the claimed duty before the court from the outset, which fits a proceeding aimed at forcing official action.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a mandamus action start?
By filing a complaint with the prothonotary.
Amendment History
The provisions of this Rule 1093 adopted June 25, 1946, effective January 1, 1947; amended June 27, 2017, effective October 1, 2017, 47 Pa.B. 3805. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (255234).
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. Last verified June 30, 2026. ·
Official text
Also known as: commence mandamusfile mandamus complaintstarting a mandamus action