I filed a suit in magistrate (small claims) against a former landlord who did not return my security deposit. She called me to acknowledge the suit, but did not file a respond and I received a default judgement. She appealed.

I am wondering what happens next. Does she automatically get a second chance to defend my original suit or does she first have to show why the default judgment should be set aside? What are the grounds for setting aside a default judgment? This is under Pennsylvania law.

I don't know what specifically the Pennsylvania law is on this; but generally in most areas the issue is going to be decided according to an "excusable neglect" test: i.e.: whether the reason the landlord didn't respond to the suit is a reasonable excuse. Did the landlord indicate why she didn't respond?

And yes, the default will probably not be ignored; she will have to show why it should be disregarded.