What is the difference between a preliminary hearing and a trial in criminal defense law?

In Pennsylvania, criminal defense law provides different processes for dealing with criminal cases. A preliminary hearing and a trial are two of the most common proceedings involved in criminal defense law. A preliminary hearing is the process before a trial where the criminal defendant appears in court to hear the formal charges against them. During a preliminary hearing, the judge will review the evidence, hear arguments from attorneys, and determine whether there is enough evidence to move the case to trial. The procedure is designed to ensure that an individual accused of a crime receives a fair hearing before a trial is conducted. A trial is the next step in a criminal defense law case. During a trial, the accused party is tried before a jury and must either be found guilty or acquitted of the charges. The prosecution will present evidence and witnesses in order to establish the guilt of the accused, while the defense will attempt to reduce the charges against their client or even obtain a not guilty verdict. Witnesses for both sides are cross-examined in court and evidence is presented. After the jury reaches a verdict, the accused will either be found guilty and face a sentence, or acquitted and be free from the charges. In summary, a preliminary hearing is the first step of a criminal defense law case in which a judge will review the evidence to determine if there is enough evidence to go to trial. A trial is the second step where the evidence and witness testimony is presented and the jury is asked to reach a verdict.

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What is the difference between a preliminary hearing and a trial in criminal defense law?

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