FAQ - How Long Does A Criminal Case Take

How Long does a Criminal Case Take?

This will depend on the nature of your case and whether you are the one seeking the continuance. In theory, a defendant can seek an unlimited amount of continuances. Otherwise, generally speaking, the law povides as follows:

(A)(1) Trial in a court case in which a written complaint is filed against the defendant after June 30, 1973 but before July 1, 1974 shall commence no later than 270 days from the date on which the complaint is filed.

(2) Trial in a court case in which a written complaint is filed against the defendant, when the defendant is incarcerated on that case, shall commence no later than 180 days from the date on which the complaint is filed.

(3) Trial in a court case in which a written complaint is filed against the defendant, when the defendant is at liberty on bail, shall commence no later than 365 days from the date on which the complaint is filed.

Notwithstanding the above, our firm may be able to negotiate a plea deal at the preliminary hearing.

Drunk Driving (DUI)
DUI, first offense, second offence, first tier, second tier, third tier (most serious)

Assault and Battery
Bar fights, mutual combat, defenses, domestic violence

Felony
Aggravated assault, conspiracy, drug charges

Bad Checks
Plea deals, restitution, avoiding jail time and heavy fines

Shoplifting
Retal theft cases in Pittsburgh and Beaver County

Disorderly Conduct
Disturbing the peace, Police going too far to find you guilty of something

Expunged Records
We get your charges expunged