Criminal Law in Philadelphia County
Philadelphia County is the most populous county in Pennsylvania and home to one of the oldest and busiest criminal justice systems in the United States. The city of Philadelphia presents a unique legal landscape shaped by its dense urban environment, high case volume, and distinct local prosecutorial practices. Criminal charges in Philadelphia County can carry severe consequences ranging from loss of employment and housing to lengthy incarceration, making experienced legal representation essential. Whether facing a misdemeanor or a serious felony, residents of Philadelphia County benefit greatly from the guidance of a knowledgeable criminal law attorney.
Courts Handling Criminal Law Cases in Philadelphia County
Criminal Law cases in Philadelphia County are handled primarily by the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas, Criminal Trial Division, which presides over felony and serious misdemeanor matters. Summary offenses and preliminary hearings for misdemeanors and felonies are first heard at the Philadelphia Municipal Court. The Court of Common Pleas also includes specialized units such as the Homicide Division and the Drug Treatment Court, reflecting the breadth and complexity of criminal matters in the county.
Common Criminal Law Situations in Philadelphia County
Among the most common criminal matters in Philadelphia County are drug possession and distribution charges, DUI offenses, assault and domestic violence cases, theft and robbery charges, and firearms violations. Philadelphia has seen significant enforcement activity around illegal weapons possession, particularly given Pennsylvania law on firearms licensing and carry permits. Residents also frequently face charges related to property crimes, disorderly conduct, and offenses that arise from interactions in densely populated urban neighborhoods.
Penalties and Outcomes in Pennsylvania
Under Pennsylvania law, criminal penalties vary significantly based on the grading of the offense, with summary offenses carrying up to 90 days in jail, misdemeanors ranging from 1 to 5 years imprisonment, and felonies carrying sentences of 2 to 20 years or more depending on the degree. Pennsylvania also imposes mandatory minimum sentences for certain offenses involving firearms and drug trafficking, which can limit judicial discretion at sentencing. A conviction may result not only in incarceration and fines but also in collateral consequences such as a permanent criminal record, loss of voting rights during incarceration, ineligibility for certain professional licenses, and immigration consequences for non-citizens.
Free — available now
Criminal Law question in Philadelphia County?
Call our free hotline right now — available 24/7, no obligation.
Call free now
Why Go To Court for Criminal Law in Philadelphia County
Go To Court Lawyers connects Philadelphia County residents with experienced criminal defense attorneys who understand the local courts, prosecutors, and procedures that shape outcomes in this jurisdiction. With free 24/7 access to legal information and a lawyer booking service coming soon, Go To Court makes it easier for Philadelphians to understand their rights and take the first steps toward mounting an effective defense.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, misdemeanors are divided into three degrees, with third-degree misdemeanors carrying up to one year in prison and first-degree misdemeanors carrying up to five years. Felonies are more serious offenses categorized into three degrees as well, with first-degree felonies carrying sentences of up to 20 years in state prison. The grading of an offense significantly affects not only potential incarceration but also fines, probation terms, and long-term collateral consequences.
Can a criminal record be expunged in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania law allows for the expungement of certain criminal records, including summary convictions after five years of arrest-free conduct, charges that resulted in acquittal or were dismissed, and records of individuals who are 70 years or older and have been arrest-free for ten years. The Clean Slate Act, which took effect in Pennsylvania in 2019, also provides for the automatic sealing of certain misdemeanor convictions after ten years without further criminal activity. It is important to note that felony convictions generally cannot be expunged unless the person was acquitted or charges were withdrawn, and consulting an attorney can help determine eligibility.
What should I do if I am arrested in Philadelphia County?
If you are arrested in Philadelphia County, you have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney, and you should exercise both of these rights immediately. Do not make any statements to law enforcement without first speaking to a criminal defense attorney, as anything you say can be used against you in court. Contact a lawyer as soon as possible, as early legal intervention can sometimes result in reduced charges, favorable bail conditions, or the identification of procedural issues that may benefit your case.
How does bail work in Philadelphia County criminal cases?
In Philadelphia County, bail is set at a preliminary arraignment typically held within hours of arrest, often before a bail commissioner at the Philadelphia Municipal Court. A judge or bail commissioner considers factors such as the severity of the charges, prior criminal history, ties to the community, and the likelihood of appearing for future court dates when setting bail. Bail can take several forms in Pennsylvania, including release on recognizance, monetary bail, or non-monetary conditions such as electronic monitoring, and an attorney can argue for the least restrictive conditions possible.
What are the penalties for a DUI conviction in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania uses a tiered DUI penalty system based on blood alcohol content (BAC) and prior offenses, with three tiers corresponding to general impairment (0.08 to 0.099 percent), high BAC (0.10 to 0.159 percent), and highest BAC (0.16 percent and above). For a first offense at the general impairment level, penalties may include a probationary period without mandatory jail time, but higher BAC levels and repeat offenses can result in mandatory minimum jail sentences, substantial fines, and license suspension. A DUI conviction in Pennsylvania can also affect your insurance rates, employment opportunities, and in some cases result in the installation of an ignition interlock device on your vehicle.