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What Is a Preliminary Hearing in Pennsylvania?

A preliminary hearing is a court proceeding held shortly after criminal charges are filed to determine if the Commonwealth has enough evidence to justify holding the case for trial. It is not about proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The judge is simply deciding whether there is "prima facie" evidence that a crime was committed and that you are likely the person who committed it. In Luzerne County as well as other counties In Pennsylvania, preliminary hearings are usually held before the magisterial district court near where the alleged offense occurred or such as in Wilkes-Barre, Hazleton, or Nanticoke.

Can I Be Charged in a County Where the Crime Didn’t Happen?

Understanding Jurisdiction and Venue in Pennsylvania Criminal Cases One of the most common questions I get from people facing charges in Pennsylvania is this:

[WATCH VIDEO] Methods Used By Real Estate Attorneys in Newport Beach To Safeguard Your Investments

[WATCH VIDEO] "Methods Used By Real Estate Attorneys in Newport Beach To Safeguard Your Investments" by Newport Beach Real Estate Attorneys

Safeguard Your Investments with Expert Real Estate Attorneys in Newport Beach

"Safeguard Your Investments with Expert Real Estate Attorneys in Newport Beach" by Newport Beach Real Estate Attorneys

Charges Withdrawn in High-Profile Case

The Law Office of John B. Pike is pleased to announce a significant development in the criminal case against our client.

Factors and Evidence That Impact a Criminal Court Proceeding

When someone is charged with a crime, the courtroom may seem like a mystery, full of rituals, arguments, and rulings that are hard to follow. But in every criminal case, certain factors and types of evidence play outsized roles in shaping the outcome. Whether you're a defendant, family member, or just curious about how criminal trials work, understanding what truly influences court proceedings is essential. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors and forms of evidence that regularly affect criminal court proceedings in Pennsylvania, and across the country.

How a Routine Traffic Stop Can Escalate into Criminal Charges in Pennsylvania

Most people think a routine traffic stop is just that—routine. But in Pennsylvania, it doesn’t take much for a simple stop to escalate into something far more serious. As a criminal defense lawyer, I’ve seen this happen time and time again. Here's what you need to know to protect yourself.

New Senior Driver License Rules Take Effect July 2025: What Pennsylvania Drivers Need to Know

Starting in July 2025, a new federal law will change how older Americans renew their driver’s licenses and Pennsylvania seniors should take note. With the senior population growing, this law aims to balance public safety with individual independence, especially as age-related changes like slower reaction times and vision issues may affect driving ability.

[UPDATED] Resolve Timeshare Disputes with a Timeshare Attorney in Florida

"[UPDATED] Resolve Timeshare Disputes with a Timeshare Attorney in Florida" by Timeshare Legal Action

Hire a Lawyer to Cancel a Timeshare

"Hire a Lawyer to Cancel a Timeshare" by Newport Beach Real Estate Attorneys

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