Section 2187. Number of Copies to be Served and Filed

(a) General rule.—Unless the appellate court directs otherwise, each party shall file:

(1) 25 copies of each definitive brief and reproduced record in the Supreme Court;

(2) 15 copies of each definitive brief and five copies of each reproduced record in the Commonwealth Court;

(3) 7 copies of each definitive brief and reproduced record in the Superior Court.

Each party shall serve 2 copies of its definitive brief and reproduced record on every other party separately represented.

(b) Advance text of briefs.—If the record is being reproduced pursuant to Rule 2154(b) (large records) two copies of each brief without definitive reproduced record pagination shall be served on each party separately represented. Proof of service showing compliance with this rule (but not including the advance text of the brief) shall be filed with the prothonotary of the appellate court.

(c) In forma pauperis.—Unless the appellate court directs otherwise, a party who has been permitted to proceed in forma pauperis shall file:

(i) 15 copies of each definitive brief with the Supreme Court;

(ii) 15 copies of each definitive brief with the Commonwealth Court;

(iii) 7 copies of each definitive brief with the Superior Court.

Each party who has been permitted to proceed in forma pauperis shall serve one copy of each definitive brief on every other party separately represented.

The provisions of this Rule 2187 amended through December 10, 1986, effective January 31, 1987, and shall govern all matters thereafter commenced and, insofar as just and practicable, matters then pending, 16 Pa.B. 4951; amended July 7, 1997, effective in 60 days, 27 Pa.B. 3503; amended June 26, 2007, effective immediately. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (325774) to (325775).

Notation

Explanatory Note

At the request of the appellate prothonotaries, it will no longer be necessary to file advance copies (e.g. page proof) of the brief when service is made on the opposing party, but the requirement for the filing of a proof of such service is retained.

Counsel are advised to check with the prothonotary of the appellate court before filing as the number of copies required may change from time to time without formal amendment of these rules.

Official Note

See Rule 2189 for procedure in cases involving the death penalty.