Rule 239.1.Pleadings and Legal Papers. Local Rules 205.2(a) and 205.2(b).
Adopted October 24, 2003 · Not amended since adoption · Last verified June 30, 2026
In one sentenceRule 239.1 lets a court impose local requirements on the physical characteristics of pleadings and other legal papers, or require a cover sheet, but only by promulgating the numbered local rules 205.2(a) and 205.2(b).
(a)A court may impose requirements governing the physical characteristics of pleadings and other legal papers. A court which imposes such requirements must promulgate a local rule, numbered Local Rule 205.2(a), listing those requirements.
(b)A court may require pleadings and other legal papers to be accompanied by a cover sheet in the form set forth in the local rule. A court which imposes such requirements must promulgate a local rule, numbered Local Rule 205.2(b), stating the requirements and setting forth the form of the cover sheet.
End
Plain-English Summary
This rule channels local formatting requirements into named local rules. A court may impose requirements governing the physical characteristics of pleadings and other legal papers, but only if it promulgates a local rule numbered 205.2(a).
The same is true for cover sheets. A court may require that pleadings and other legal papers be accompanied by a cover sheet in a form the local rule sets, again only by promulgating the numbered local rule. This keeps local requirements findable under a predictable number.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a county set its own formatting rules for filings?
Yes, but only through a local rule numbered 205.2(a) for physical characteristics, and a numbered local rule for any required cover sheet. Recall that a compliant statewide filing may not be refused over a local rule (Rule 205.2).
Amendment History
The provisions of this Rule 239.1 adopted October 24, 2003, effective 9 months after the date of the Order, 33 Pa.B 5506.
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:local rule 205.2local formatting rulescover sheet local rule