When you’re searching for a legal team you can trust, don’t look further than Latoison Law. Our office is conveniently located at 8 South Plum Street in Media, PA, right in the heart of Delaware County. We specialize in preliminary hearings and are proud to offer personalized legal defense services tailored to your individual needs. With us, you won’t get lost in the shuffle – our experienced criminal defense attorneys know how best to represent your interests and navigate the courts!
If you have been charged with a crime in Pennsylvania, you may be wondering what comes next. One of the first steps is a preliminary hearing. During this hearing, both sides will present evidence to determine if there is enough to proceed with the case. It’s important to understand how these hearings work so that you can adequately prepare for your own hearing. Keep reading to learn more about preliminary hearings and how they work in Pennsylvania.
Key Findings
What is a Preliminary Hearing in The State of Pennsylvania?
A preliminary hearing is the first step taken after someone has been formally charged with a criminal offense in Pennsylvania. This hearing will give both sides an opportunity to present evidence and arguments that support their side of the story. The judge will then decide whether or not there is enough evidence to send the case to trial. During this hearing, the accused person does not enter an actual plea; rather, they are asked if they would like to waive or deny their right to a preliminary hearing, which they can do at any time before or during the hearing itself.
What Evidence Will Be Presented?
The preliminary hearing is “an opportunity for the defense and the prosecution to argue bail,” explains defense attorney Enrique Latoison, Managing Partner and founder of Latoison Law. He says: “A lot of times, you can also work out an agreement, sometimes for charges to be dismissed. Preliminary hearings are a very important part of the process and you should come prepared.” Check out his full take here sponsored by @Your3MinuteLawyer or click here to watch the full playlist.
During the preliminary hearing, both sides will present evidence in order to build their cases and make their arguments. The prosecution will typically call witnesses who have knowledge of the incident as well as offer any physical evidence they may have collected (such as photographs or DNA samples). The defense can also call witnesses and offer evidence that could potentially support their argument that there is not enough evidence for the case to move forward. However, it should be noted that neither side must present all of their evidence during this stage—simply enough for a judge to make an informed decision on whether or not there is sufficient cause for the case to proceed further into trial.
Why Preliminary Hearings Preparedness Matters
Why is being prepared for preliminary hearings in Pennsylvania important? Preliminary hearings are crucial in Pennsylvania’s criminal proceedings as they determine if a case has enough evidence to go to trial. Being well-prepared helps defendants understand their rights and potentially influences the case’s progression. For specialized assistance, contact Latoison Law at 610-999-1439.
Preliminary hearings are an important part of criminal proceedings in Pennsylvania and it’s important for defendants to understand what takes place during these hearings so that they can adequately prepare themselves and know what rights they have throughout this process. While these hearings do not determine guilt or innocence, they are still critical components of determining whether or not a criminal case should move forward into trial. Knowing your rights and preparing yourself accordingly can help ensure your best possible outcome when facing criminal charges in Pennsylvania. Related topics: What You Should Know About Gagnon Hearings and Violations of Probation.
Looking To Speak to A Lawyer Who Specializes In Preliminary Hearings In Pennsylvania?
We get it–preliminary hearings are frightening and overwhelming. Here at Latoison Law, we make sure to put your convenience first. We understand how stressful these processes can be, which is why our hardworking legal team always goes above and beyond to achieve a speedy resolution while still ensuring that your rights are protected. When preliminary hearings arise, Latoison Law is ready to fight for you. Call today at 610-999-1439 or stop by our office at 8 South Plum Street Media, PA 19063. We look forward to hearing from you!
