Posts in 'Guide for Court Users'

Judge Bruce Boni presenting at PMC's Housing Court Workshop

Housing Court 101 Workshop with Focus on Renewal and Judge Bruce Boni

In partnership with Focus on Renewal and Magisterial District Judge Bruce Boni, Pennsylvanians for Modern Courts held this Housing Court 101 workshop. This presentation will help build knowledge and confidence by guiding you through the process. It will cover how a case gets to court, courtroom etiquette, what happens in the courtroom and the physical set-up of the court.
Photo of dogs serving on jury and a cat as the defendant, with text reading "A Jury of My Peers? Be a Peer...Say Yes To Jury Duty."

Jury Duty FAQ

What kinds of cases will I hear as a juror?

Jurors hear either criminal or civil cases.

In criminal cases, a district attorney acting on behalf of the citizens of Pennsylvania prosecutes a case against an individual or an entity accused of a crime. The district attorney is also referred to as the

A map of PA Illustrating the Western, Middle and Eastern Districts

Federal Court Structure

Federal courts only hear two types of cases. The rest must be heard in state courts.

  1. Cases involving federal law
  2. Both Plaintiff and Defendant are from different states AND the case is for more than $75,000

United States District Courts

The United States District Courts are the lowest level of

courtroom

Frequently Asked Questions for Litigants and Witnesses

What is the difference between state court and federal court?

Pennsylvania's state courts decide cases involving child custody, divorce, most crimes, contract disputes, and traffic violations – just to name a few! These courts can also hear cases that are appeals from state or local agencies.

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