Rule 239.8.Local Rules. Promulgation. Publication. Effective Date.
Adopted October 24, 2003 · Last amended June 28, 2016 · Last verified June 30, 2026
Full Text of Rule 239.8
Plain-English Summary
This rule points to where the local-rulemaking requirements live rather than duplicating them. The procedures for promulgating and amending local rules of civil procedure — including publication and effective dates — are set out in the Pennsylvania Rule of Judicial Administration that governs local rulemaking.
The Official Note records that, effective in 2016, that administrative rule was amended to consolidate all local rulemaking in one place. Cross-referencing keeps a single authoritative source for how counties make their local rules, so the civil rules and the administrative rules do not drift apart.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the rules for adopting local civil rules?
In Pennsylvania Rule of Judicial Administration 103(d), which this rule incorporates.
Official Note
Official Note: Effective August 1, 2016, Pennsylvania Rule of Judicial Administration 103 was amended to consolidate and include all local rulemaking requirements. Accordingly, the requirements under Rule 239.8 for the promulgation and amendment of local rules of civil procedure were rescinded and replaced. All local rules previously promulgated in accordance with the requirements of this rule prior to rescission remain effective upon compilation and publication pursuant to Pa.R.J.A. No. 103(d)(7).
Amendment History
The provisions of this Rule 239.8 adopted October 24, 2003, effective 9 months after the date of the Order, 33 Pa.B 5506; amended June 30, 2004, effective immediately, 34 Pa.B. 3677; amended November 2, 2005, effective immediately, 35 Pa.B. 6318; amended December 15, 2010, effective immediately, 41 Pa.B. 215; amended June 28, 2016, effective August 1, 2016, 46 Pa.B. 3797. Immediately preceeding text appears at serial page (354878).