Rule 1901.6.Responsive Pleading Not Required.
Adopted March 9, 1977 · Last amended June 1, 2018 · Last verified June 30, 2026
Full Text of Rule 1901.6
Plain-English Summary
This rule streamlines the pleadings in an abuse case. The defendant is not required to file an answer or other responsive pleading to the petition or the certified order, and all averments that are not admitted are automatically deemed denied.
Relieving the defendant of a formal answer fits the fast, hearing-driven nature of Protection From Abuse proceedings, where relief turns on a prompt hearing rather than an exchange of pleadings. The Official Note points to the statute for the timing and manner of hearings and orders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a PFA defendant have to file an answer?
No. No answer is required, and all averments not admitted are deemed denied.
Official Note
Official Note: For procedures as to the time and manner of hearings and issuance of orders, see 23 Pa.C.S. § 6107. For provisions as to the scope of relief available, see 23 Pa.C.S. § 6108. For provisions as to contempt for violation of an order, see 23 Pa.C.S. § 6114. See Pa.R.C.P. No. 1930.1(b). This rule may require attorneys or unrepresented parties to file confidential documents and documents containing confidential information that are subject to the Case Records Public Access Policy of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania.
Amendment History
The provisions of this Rule 1901.6 adopted March 9, 1977, effective April 10, 1977, 7 Pa.B. 839; amended March 30, 1994, effective July 1, 1994, 24 Pa.B. 1943; amended March 9, 1998, effective July 1, 1998, 28 Pa.B. 1391; amended May 2, 2006, effective May 9, 2006, 36 Pa.B. 2369; amended January 5, 2018, effective January 6, 2018, 48 Pa.B. 477; amended June 1, 2018, effective July 1, 2018, 48 Pa.B. 3520. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (390070) to (390071).