A preliminary hearing occurs when a defendant pleads not guilty to a criminal charge in court. At these hearings, a judge determines if there is enough evidence to continue to trial. If you’re unsure what to expect at your preliminary hearing in Mt. Lebanon, PA, contact Louis W. Emmi Attorney at Law.
About Louis W. Emmi Attorney at Law
The team at the law office of Louis W. Emmi is skilled in litigation and criminal defense across multiple charges. We represent clients in DUI, assault, drug crime, domestic violence, and other cases. We can help you not just with your preliminary hearing, but with every phase of your trial.
Criminal defense attorneys like Louis W. Emmi are very familiar in Mt. Lebanon, Pennsylvania with Magistral District Court 05-2-19, located at 680 Washington Avenue in Pittsburgh. This court is run by the Honorable Hilary K. Wheatley.
The Structure of Pennsylvania Preliminary Hearings in Mt. Lebanon
Preliminary hearings occur after an arraignment, where an alleged offender gives their plea. Preliminary hearings allow the prosecution to present their evidence and explain why it is sufficient to charge you. You are allowed to waive your right to a preliminary hearing and move on to trial. However, your lawyer may suggest a hearing if they believe the prosecution has weak evidence against you.
Preliminary hearings must occur within two to three weeks after arraignment. If you are released from jail, the hearing will occur within 21 days. However, if you are still in jail, the court must hold your hearing within 14 days.
During your hearing, the prosecution is allowed to showcase all of their evidence, even if it may not be shown during a jury trial. The judge looks over all the evidence and decides if there is probable cause to charge you with a crime. If there is, the judge will schedule your trial. If the prosecution fails to provide evidence of probable cause, the judge may dismiss your case.
After your preliminary hearing, you and your lawyer can submit various pretrial motions to the judge. These motions can help suppress evidence, change the trial’s venue, or even dismiss the case. You can file motions even if you waive your hearing. Pretrial motions and preparation take up the weeks and months between your hearing and your trial.
In 2024, 7.7% of all criminal cases in Pennsylvania ended in a withdrawal or dismissal. Our firm strives to add your case to Pennsylvania’s list of dismissals. Regardless, we can be by your side through both your preliminary hearing and your trial.
Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Mt. Lebanon
Louis W. Emmi Attorney at Law is the law firm for you. Our familiarity with criminal defense laws and local court systems helps us craft strong legal strategies for your case. We can investigate your case thoroughly and examine the strength of the prosecution’s evidence.
If you are curious about our services, we offer a free consultation for new potential clients. Contact us today to hire a criminal defense lawyer from our firm and see how we can guide you through your criminal case.
