What to Expect If You're Charged With a Crime in Pennsylvania

As a criminal defense attorney with over 30 years of experience, I’ve helped clients at every stage of the criminal process in both state and federal court. Here’s a step-by-step overview of what happens after criminal charges are filed in Pennsylvania.

🔹 1. Arrest or Summons

You may be:

• Arrested on the spot by law enforcement

• Charged by summons, where you receive notice to appear in court without an arrest

The severity of the charge (summary, misdemeanor, felony) often determines which happens.

🔹 2. Preliminary Arraignment

This is your first court appearance. A magisterial district judge will:

• Read the charges against you

• Inform you of your rights

• Set bail or release conditions

If you’ve been arrested, this usually happens within 72 hours.

🔹 3. Preliminary Hearing

This crucial hearing determines whether there’s enough evidence for the case to move forward. The prosecution must show a prima facie case — that a crime occurred and you may be responsible.

✅ A skilled defense lawyer can challenge the evidence and get charges dropped or reduced at this stage.

🔹 4. Formal Arraignment

If the case proceeds, you’ll be arraigned in the Court of Common Pleas. At this point:

• You’ll enter a plea (usually Not Guilty)

• The court sets deadlines for motions, discovery, and pretrial conferences

🔹 5. Pretrial Proceedings

Your attorney may:

• Review evidence ("discovery")

• File motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges

• Negotiate with the prosecutor for a plea deal

• Explore diversionary programs, especially for first-time offenders

🔹 6. Trial

If no deal is reached, your case will go to trial:

• Bench trial (judge only) or jury trial (for most felonies)

• Both sides present evidence and examine witnesses

• You are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt

🔹 7. Sentencing (If Convicted)

If found guilty, the judge will sentence you based on:

• The severity of the crime

• Your prior record

• Sentencing guidelines under Pennsylvania law

Penalties may include fines, probation, jail or prison time, community service, or restitution.

🔹 8. Appeals and Post-Conviction Relief

If you’re convicted, you may have grounds to file:

• An appeal (if legal errors occurred during trial)

• A post-sentence motion to reconsider your sentence

• A PCRA petition (Post-Conviction Relief Act) if your rights were violated

🔹 Every Step Matters — Don’t Go It Alone

Every stage of a criminal case is an opportunity to protect your future. The sooner you involve an experienced attorney, the more options you’ll have for a favorable outcome.

📞 Contact Mark D. Hauser, criminal defense attorney, today for a confidential case evaluation.