Rule 208.2.Motion. Form. Content.
Adopted October 24, 2003 · Last amended June 28, 2016 · Last verified June 30, 2026
Full Text of Rule 208.2
Plain-English Summary
This rule standardizes how a motion is written. It carries a caption with the court, case number, name of the motion, and moving party; runs in consecutively numbered paragraphs; and states the material facts that ground the relief, specifies the relief, and includes a proposed order.
Two formalities complete it. The motion includes a certificate of service showing how and on whom it was served, identifying counsel or a “pro se” party for each side, and it is signed and endorsed. A motion need not be verified unless a rule governing the particular motion, or a court order, requires verification.
Frequently Asked Questions
What must a motion include?
A caption, consecutively numbered paragraphs, the material facts and the specific relief sought, a proposed order, a certificate of service, and a signature.
Does a motion have to be verified?
No, unless verification is required by a general rule governing that particular motion or by order of court.
Official Note
Official Note: Motions are subject to Rule 440 governing service of legal papers other than original process, Rule 1023.1 governing the signing of documents, and Rule 1025 governing the endorsement of legal papers. Any requirements of a court relating to the format of a motion and cover sheet must be set forth in local rules numbered Local Rule 205.2(a) and Local Rule 205.2(b).
Official Note: Rule 239.3(a) authorizes a court to require that a motion include a brief statement of the applicable authority. Rule 239.3(a) requires each court which has imposed this requirement to promulgate a local rule, numbered Local Rule 208.2(c), stating the requirement. Rule 239.3(b) also authorizes each court to provide a certification requirement for a motion as uncontested. Rule 239.3(b) requires each court which has imposed this requirement to promulgate a local rule, numbered Local Rule 208.2(d), stating the requirement. Similarly, Rule 239.3(c) authorizes each court of common pleas to require the moving party in any motion relating to discovery to certify that counsel has conferred or attempted to confer with all interested parties in order to resolve the matter without court action. Rule 239.3(c) requires each court which has imposed this requirement to promulgate a local rule, numbered Local Rule 208.2(e), stating the requirement.
Amendment History
The provisions of this Rule 208.2 adopted October 24, 2003, effective 9 months after the date of the Order, 33 Pa.B. 5506; amended October 15, 2004, effective immediately, 34 Pa.B. 5889; amended November 2, 2005, effective immediately, 35 Pa.B. 6318; amended June 28, 2016, effective August 1, 2016, 46 Pa.B. 3797. Immediately preceeding text appears at serial pages (369608) to (369609).