Pennsylvania § 1503 - Applicability of colonial law.
Full text of Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 1503 — Applicability of colonial law., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 1503. Applicability of colonial law.
(a) English law.--The common law and such of the statutes of England as were in force in the Province of Pennsylvania on May 14, 1776 and which were properly adapted to the circumstances of the inhabitants of this Commonwealth shall be deemed to have been in force in this Commonwealth from and after February 10, 1777.
(b) Provincial statutes.--The statutes enacted on or before May 14, 1776 under the authority of the late Proprietaries of the Province of Pennsylvania have the same validity and effect as statutes enacted under the authority of this Commonwealth.
(c) Exceptions.--The rules specified in subsections (a) and (b) of this section shall not be applicable to any statute or law which:
(1) has been heretofore or is hereafter amended or repealed or which has expired by its own limitation;
(2) orders the taking or subscribing any oath, affirmation or declaration of allegiance or fidelity to the British crown;
(3) acknowledges any authority in the heirs or devisees of William Penn, Esq., deceased, the former Governor of the Province of Pennsylvania, or any other person whomsoever as Governor of the Province of Pennsylvania; or
(4) is repugnant to the Constitution of this Commonwealth or of the United States.
Source: official Pennsylvania text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsylvania § 1503
What does Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 1503 cover?
Section 1503 ("Applicability of colonial law.") is part of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, the codified statutory law of Pennsylvania. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Pennsylvania § 1503?
A common citation format is "Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 1503" (Pennsylvania). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Pennsylvania law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Pennsylvania official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Pennsylvania attorney.
How does Pennsylvania § 1503 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania.