I have to go to court today because we are charging someone with disorderly conduct and making threats to my family. I've never been in this situation before and don't know what to expect. Has anyone been on the plaintiff's side who can give me some information?
2007-09-05 03:52:13 · 2 answers · asked by mamaladybok 3 in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
It depends on whether the hearing is in justice of the peace court [district justice or magistrate court] or regular criminal court. If it is in justice of the peace court, the police officer who is involved will probably be the first witness. You will also be sworn in and will be questioned by the assistant district attorney . If the accused is represented by an attorney, he will ask you questions. If there is no attorney representing the accused, the accused himself may ask you questions.
These matters are usually handled on the level of the minor judiciary (justice of the peace court) and typically do not make it to criminal court on a county-level.
You will find the justice of the peace to be professional and friendly to you. In Pennsylvania, many justices of the peace are attorneys, and all have attended training to be district justices and have passed a qualifying test. My best advice is to get a good sleep the night before, and don't worry.
2007-09-05 04:09:11 · answer #1 · answered by Mark 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The first answer is accurate if you have been bothered by someone and they are being prosecuted for that crime by the courts/police. In which case, you will only be a witness. If it's a restraining order you are seeking, take any photographs, police reports and witnesses with you to court as proof of that person's threats.
2007-09-05 04:11:25 · answer #2 · answered by Serena 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋