Preliminary Hearings

Preliminary hearings, also known as prelims, are the first and extremely important evidentiary hearing in a criminal case. The initial appearance represents the first and best chance for the defendant to have witnesses and police cross-examined and/or have charges dropped.

Legal representation at these hearings is paramount. Waiving legal representation ignores the complexity of the entire criminal process and the stakes involved. Simply stated, you need a West Chester attorney for preliminary hearings. At Law Offices of Kelly & Conte, we will remain at your side, focusing on protecting your rights while pursuing the best outcome.

Protecting Your Rights At Preliminary Hearings

At the prelim, you need a skilled and seasoned criminal trial attorney to ask questions, present evidence and possibly request dismissals or plea bargain to lesser charges. Conversely, the government must demonstrate probable cause and prove that the defendant is responsible for the crime. Not proving prima facie results in charges being dropped.

At Law Offices of Kelly & Conte, we provide aggressive representation at the preliminary hearing and subsequent court appearances. We build fact-based cases with attention to every detail, securing all the necessary evidence from police and witnesses. We strive to reduce or prevent bail. Should a district attorney file charges, we will continue the fight.

Even The Odds If You Are Facing Federal Charges

Our Pennsylvania criminal defense lawyers represent clients at preliminary hearings throughout Pennsylvania. Please fill out our intake form or call Law Offices of Kelly & Conte at 610-314-7066 for an initial consultation.