If you or someone you care about is facing criminal charges in Philadelphia, the preliminary hearing is one of the most critical early stages in the legal process. It’s not just a formality; it’s the gatekeeper that determines whether your case moves forward to trial. But what happens after that hearing concludes? At Pagano Law, we want you to understand exactly what to expect next, because being informed is one of the best ways to protect your rights.
From Probable Cause to Arraignment: What Comes Next
A preliminary hearing in Pennsylvania is held to determine if the Commonwealth has enough evidence to establish probable cause. This doesn’t mean the defendant is guilty—it just means there’s enough to move forward. If the judge decides the prosecution has met that low threshold, the case is “held for court,” and the wheels of the criminal justice system keep turning.
Once the case is held for court, it’s transferred to the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas. This marks the start of the formal arraignment process. Unlike the preliminary hearing, the arraignment is procedural. It’s where the defendant is officially advised of the charges and enters a plea—usually “not guilty.” No evidence is presented, and it typically happens a few weeks after the preliminary hearing.
If you’re working with Pagano Law, we use this window of time strategically. It’s an opportunity to file pre-trial motions, request discovery from the prosecution, and begin crafting a defense that challenges the charges from every angle.
Pre-Trial Maneuvering: A Crucial Phase
After the arraignment, the case enters a phase where both sides prepare for trial. This stage can last for months and involves a lot of legal maneuvering. The prosecution is required to turn over evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and any physical evidence. This process is called discovery, and it’s one of the most important tools we use to evaluate the strength of the case against you.
This is also the time when plea negotiations often begin. Depending on the facts, the prosecution might offer a reduced sentence or lesser charges in exchange for a guilty plea. At Pagano Law, we take every plea deal seriously, but we never recommend accepting one unless it serves your best interests. Our job is to pressure-test the prosecution’s case, identify weaknesses, and present you with every available option.
Pre-trial hearings may also be scheduled during this time to argue motions—such as motions to suppress evidence obtained illegally. The outcome of these motions can significantly affect the direction of the case.
Trial or Resolution: The Road Forks
If the case isn’t dismissed or resolved through a plea agreement, it proceeds to trial. In Philadelphia, you can have a bench trial (where the judge decides the verdict) or a jury trial. Trials can last anywhere from a day to several weeks depending on the complexity of the case.
Before trial begins, your defense team has a final opportunity to shape the narrative. Jury selection, opening statements, witness cross-examinations, and closing arguments all require a well-developed strategy. This is where experience matters. At Pagano Law, we bring decades of courtroom practice to bear on every case, leveraging every advantage the law allows.
A conviction at trial doesn’t necessarily end the road. We advise clients on post-trial motions and potential appeals if legal errors affected the outcome. Similarly, if you’re found not guilty, your case is over, and you may be eligible to have your record expunged.
How Long Does It All Take?
The criminal justice process in Philadelphia isn’t fast. From preliminary hearing to trial can take anywhere from several months to over a year, depending on the backlog in the courts and the complexity of the case. Delays are common, but that time isn’t wasted. Every day is a chance to strengthen your defense, file strategic motions, and negotiate better outcomes.
Being patient but proactive is key. While the system moves slowly, the consequences of inaction can be severe. At every stage—from the preliminary hearing to trial—your legal representation matters. Mistakes early in the process can compound and severely damage your chances later on.
Don’t Go It Alone—Pagano Law Is Here to Fight for You
If you’ve just gone through a preliminary hearing, you might feel like you’re staring into the unknown. What happens next could change your life—and not knowing what’s coming can be one of the hardest parts. You need someone who not only knows the system but knows how to work it in your favor.
At Pagano Law, we don’t wait around for the next hearing date. We move immediately to secure evidence, talk to witnesses, file motions, and explore every possible way to end your case on the best terms. We’ve been defending the accused in Philadelphia for years, and we know how to navigate everything from routine misdemeanors to the most serious felony charges.
Whether you’re facing charges for DUI, assault, drug possession, or any other criminal offense, time is not on your side—but we are. We encourage you to contact us as soon as possible to get ahead of your case. Waiting only gives the prosecution more power. Let’s take it back.
Call Pagano Law today at 215-636-0160. Get experience on your side—because your future is worth fighting for.
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