History of the Philadelphia Legal System
Philadelphia has one of the oldest court systems in the United States.
The city was central to early American legal traditions, influenced by English common law.
The Court of Common Pleas dates back to colonial times and remains the main trial court today.
Over time, courts expanded to include Municipal and Traffic divisions to handle local matters.
The system now functions as part of Pennsylvania’s Unified Judicial System.
Philadelphia Legal Facts at a Glance
Population: Over 1.5 million residents (largest city in PA).
Courthouses: Court of Common Pleas, Municipal Court locations.
Jury Duty: Citizens 18+ may be called to serve at the Juanita Kidd Stout Center for Criminal Justice.
Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas
Philadelphia Municipal Court
Philadelphia Municipal Court (Traffic)
Common Criminal Charges in Philadelphia
Drug Possession & Distribution
Controlled substances are prosecuted heavily, with penalties depending on amount and intent
DUI (Driving Under the Influence)
Pennsylvania enforces strict DUI laws with escalating penalties for repeat offenses.
Assault & Violent Crimes
Includes aggravated assault, robbery, and related charges.
Charge
Offense Name (PA Statute)
Penalty (General Range)
| Drug Possession | Possession of a Controlled Substance (18 Pa.C.S. § 780-113) | Up to 1 year in jail and $5,000 fine (first offense); higher for repeat or large amounts. |
| Drug Distribution | Manufacture, Delivery, or Possession with Intent (18 Pa.C.S. § 780-113(a)(30)) | Felony; penalties range from 1–15 years in prison and fines up to $250,000 depending on substance and quantity. |
| DUI | Driving Under the Influence (75 Pa.C.S. § 3802) | First offense: 6 months probation to 6 months jail, $300–$5,000 fines, license suspension; penalties escalate with BAC level and repeat offenses. |
| Simple Assault | Simple Assault (18 Pa.C.S. § 2701) | Misdemeanor; up to 1–2 years in jail and fines up to $5,000 (can be felony if against certain persons). |
| Aggravated Assault | Aggravated Assault (18 Pa.C.S. § 2702) | Felony; 10–20 years in prison depending on severity. |
| Theft (Property Crimes) | Theft by Unlawful Taking (18 Pa.C.S. § 3921) | Misdemeanor or Felony depending on value: < $200 = up to 1 year; > $2,000 = up to 7 years. |
| Burglary | Burglary (18 Pa.C.S. § 3502) | Felony; up to 10–20 years in prison. |
| Robbery | Robbery (18 Pa.C.S. § 3701) | Felony; 7–20 years in prison depending on harm caused. |
How Hearings Work in Philadelphia
- After an arrest, the first step is usually a preliminary arraignment where bail is set.
- A preliminary hearing is held in Municipal Court to determine if there’s enough evidence for trial.
- Formal arraignment follows if the case is held for court.
- Cases may proceed to trial in the Court of Common Pleas.
- Many hearings take place at the CJC (1301 Filbert St).
Theft & Property Crimes
Shoplifting, burglary, auto theft, and fraud.
Probation in Philadelphia
Missed Appointments
Failing to report to a probation officer as scheduled is one of the most common violations. This can trigger a warning or an immediate violation hearing.
Failed Drug Tests
Testing positive for illegal substances violates probation terms. Repeat failures can lead to stricter supervision, rehab requirements, or jail time.
New Criminal Charges
Being arrested or charged with a new offense while on probation is considered a major violation and often results in probation being revoked.