03/24/2020 | Criminal Defense, Pennsylvania Laws
Written by Attorney Justin Ketchel

Criminal Charges During Coronavirus / COVID-19 in Pennsylvania

What Happens When You are Arrested During COVID-19 in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania Courts Coronavirus Criminal ChargesKnow Your Rights to an arraignment, hearing and an attorney in the Pennsylvania court system

Around the globe, people are facing the pandemic of Coronavirus, or COVID-19, and are currently under social distancing restrictions.

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court filed an order, effective until at least April 3, closing all courts to the public—including trial and intermediate appellate courts. Only “essential” court functions will continue.

So, what does that mean if you, a friend, or a loved one is arrested and detained in jail during this rare closure of the courts?

When someone is arrested and detained in jail for a crime they are required to be arraigned by a magisterial district court within 72 hours. The Supreme Court Order listed preliminary arraignments for bailable cases as an “essential function.”

Therefore, if you are arrested and detained in jail for a criminal charge during this court closure you still have the right to be seen by a judge within 72 hours to have your bail set.

A Pennsylvania criminal attorney can be present at such arraignment to make arguments for low and/or non-monetary bail.

Additionally, the Supreme Court Order listed preliminary hearings for incarcerated persons to be an “essential function.”

Therefore if someone has not made bail, or is currently incarcerated for any reason and has an upcoming preliminary hearing, the hearing will be held as scheduled. It is important that incarcerated defendants have the opportunity to be represented by counsel in these preliminary hearings.

Your Criminal Defense Attorney is an “Essential Service”

Ketchel Law is open, operating and happy to help anyone currently facing criminal charges during these unprecedented times.

When you need personalized attention and a tough Pittsburgh criminal lawyer, Attorney Justin Ketchel is here for you.

An arrest is not a conviction.

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OUR NUMBER ONE GOAL: GETTING YOUR CRIMINAL CHARGES DISMISSED.

CALL KETCHEL LAW TODAY: 412-456-1221

If you were arrested, call Attorney Ketchel for a free consultation. The sooner you call, the better your chances of having a strong defense to win your case or reduce the charges.

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