Tag: Criminal Defense

What Happens if the Alleged Victim Does Not Appear at a Pennsylvania Preliminary Hearing?

September 20, 2026

An alleged victim’s failure to appear at a Pennsylvania preliminary hearing does not automatically end the case. Learn about continuances, hearsay, subpoenas, dismissal, and defense strategy.

Can Hearsay Be Used at a Pennsylvania Preliminary Hearing?

September 20, 2026

Pennsylvania preliminary hearings allow some hearsay evidence, but the Commonwealth cannot establish its entire prima facie case through inadmissible hearsay alone. Learn what that means for your defense.

How Long Does a Preliminary Hearing Take in Pennsylvania?

September 20, 2026

A Pennsylvania preliminary hearing may last a few minutes or more than an hour. Learn what affects the length, why courthouse waiting takes longer, and how to prepare.

What Evidence Is Presented at a Pennsylvania Preliminary Hearing?

September 20, 2026

Learn what evidence may be presented at a Pennsylvania preliminary hearing, including witness testimony, police observations, video, records, messages, and physical evidence.

Five Ways a Defense Attorney Can Challenge a Case at a Pennsylvania Preliminary Hearing

September 20, 2026

Learn five ways a Pennsylvania defense attorney may challenge criminal charges at a preliminary hearing, including cross-examination, identification issues, missing elements, and improper grading.

Can Criminal Charges Be Dismissed at a Pennsylvania Preliminary Hearing?

September 20, 2026

Criminal charges can be dismissed at a Pennsylvania preliminary hearing when the Commonwealth fails to establish a prima facie case. Learn how the process works and what dismissal may mean.

Should You Waive Your Preliminary Hearing in Pennsylvania?

September 20, 2026

Before waiving a Pennsylvania preliminary hearing, understand what rights you give up, when a negotiated waiver may help, and what questions your lawyer should examine.

What Does “Held for Court” Mean in Pennsylvania?

September 20, 2026

“Held for court” means a Pennsylvania criminal charge survived the preliminary-hearing stage. Learn what the disposition means, what happens next, and why it is not a conviction.

What Happens at a Preliminary Hearing in Pennsylvania?

August 5, 2026

Learn what happens at a preliminary hearing in Pennsylvania, what the prosecution must prove, possible outcomes, and why having a defense attorney matters.

Fighting False PFA Allegations

July 1, 2026

Fighting False PFA Allegations. Learn how PFAs can affect contact, custody, firearms, and related criminal charges in Pennsylvania