Pennsylvania — Statute

5986 – Hearsay | Pennsylvania Law

Pennsylvania law permits hearsay statements from children in dependency cases if reliability and emotional distress criteria are met, ensuring child's protection.

Legal Content

Pennsylvania State Law

5986 – Hearsay

Pennsylvania Title 42 - Judiciary and Judicial Procedure § 5986

Summary

Pennsylvania law allows hearsay statements from children describing acts of sexual misconduct to be admitted in dependency cases if certain reliability and emotional distress criteria are met. The law specifies conditions under which the child’s statement can be used, including when the child testifies or is deemed unavailable due to emotional distress. Additional provisions address courtroom procedures and the child's emotional well-being during proceedings.

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Explain Like I'm 5

In simple terms: Pennsylvania law permits hearsay statements from children in dependency cases if reliability and emotional distress criteria are met, ensuring child's protection.. This means people must follow this rule, and breaking it can lead to criminal penalties.