About Under Arrest
Under Arrest—Understanding the Criminal Justice Process in Pennsylvania is a 30-minute video and companion informational guide produced by the Institute on Disabilities. Under Arrest illustrates the criminal justice system from the perspective of law enforcement, judiciary and corrections. The production is available to watch online.
The goal of Under Arrest is to educate the general public about the criminal justice system in Pennsylvania. It is a step-by-step review of the process, from the arrest, through the preliminary arraignment, preliminary hearing, arraignment, trial, sentencing, and possible incarceration.
The criminal justice system is a complex system of rules and substantive law designed to protect the rights of the individual and to preserve the presumption of innocence.
It is also an adversarial system, and for those who stand accused, often frightening. The resulting fear and confusion are compounded for defendants with intellectual, cognitive, and developmental disabilities.
This video, and all of its sections, is to be used for educational purposes only, and is not intended to be used as a substitute for professional legal advice. The law changes constantly and varies from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. If you need legal advice, you should consult with a licensed attorney.