Court Proceedings

The Judge

A Magisterial District Judge cannot provide any guidance to a plaintiff or defendant in a case. The Judge's role is to maintain a neutral and detached position.

It is the responsibility of each litigant to present to the court the information to be considered in rendering a fair decision. The standard for judgement in criminal cases is "beyond a reasonable doubt," and in civil cases, the standard is the "preponderance of the evidence."

Plaintiff / Affiant

When presenting a case in court, the affiant (criminal) or plaintiff (civil) always proceeds first. This is done my means of testimony, presenting evidence and/or witnesses. Witnesses are subject to cross-examination by the Defendant. All parties are subject to the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil and Criminal Procedure.

Defendant

When presenting a case in court, the defendant always proceeds second. This is done by means of testimony, presenting evidence and/or witnesses. Witnesses are subject to cross-examination by the Plaintiff / Affiant. All parties are subject to the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil and Criminal Procedure.