Pennsylvania — Statute

5985 – Testimony By Contemporaneous Alternative Method | Pennsylvania Law

Pennsylvania law permits remote testimony for child witnesses to protect their emotional well-being in criminal cases, with court approval and safeguards.

Legal Content

Pennsylvania State Law

5985 – Testimony By Contemporaneous Alternative Method

Pennsylvania Title 42 - Judiciary and Judicial Procedure § 5985

Summary

Pennsylvania law allows courts to use a contemporaneous alternative method for child witnesses' testimony in criminal cases, providing a way to protect their emotional well-being. The court can order testimony outside the courtroom via remote transmission, with specific restrictions to ensure fairness and the child's safety. A court must determine that traditional testimony would cause serious emotional distress before using this method.

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Explain Like I'm 5

In simple terms: Pennsylvania law permits remote testimony for child witnesses to protect their emotional well-being in criminal cases, with court approval and safeguards.. This means people must follow this rule, and breaking it can lead to criminal penalties.