Bucks County District Courts: What You Need to Know Before Your Hearing
If you’ve been charged with a summary offense, DUI, preliminary hearing, or traffic violation in Bucks County, your first stop will likely be at one of the Bucks County District Courts, also known as Magisterial District Courts.
These courts handle the earliest stages of the criminal process—including preliminary arraignments, preliminary hearings, and summary trials. Understanding what happens at this level is key to protecting your rights and preparing your case.
What Are the Bucks County District Courts?
Bucks County is home to 18 Magisterial District Courts, each serving a different geographic area of the county. These courts are overseen by elected Magisterial District Judges and serve as the entry point into the criminal justice system for most cases.
District Courts handle:
- Preliminary arraignments and bail hearings
- Preliminary hearings for misdemeanor and felony cases
- Traffic citations and driver’s license issues
- Summary criminal offenses (like disorderly conduct or retail theft)
- Landlord-tenant disputes and civil claims under $12,000
If your case involves a more serious charge, it will typically begin at a District Court and be forwarded to the Court of Common Pleas in Doylestown for trial.
What to Expect in a Bucks County District Court
Whether you’re facing a DUI, theft charge, or summary offense, here’s what typically happens at the District Court level:
- Preliminary Arraignment – You’re formally notified of the charges against you and bail is set.
- Preliminary Hearing – The prosecution must show there is enough evidence to send your case to the Court of Common Pleas.
- Summary Trial – For minor charges, the judge may decide your guilt and sentencing on the spot.
The process moves quickly, and the decisions made at this level can shape the outcome of your entire case. That’s why early representation is critical—even before a hearing date is scheduled.
Things to Know Before Your District Court Appearance
- You have the right to an attorney at every stage—even for summary offenses.
- Dress appropriately and arrive early. District Courts have strict protocols.
- Bring all documents—including your citation, ID, and any paperwork related to bail.
- Don’t speak to the judge or police without legal advice. What you say can be used against you.
- If you miss your court date, a bench warrant may be issued.
Bucks County District Court Locations and Judges
Click any of the links below to view individual court pages, including contact info, assigned judges, and localized guidance:
- District Court 07-1-01 – Bensalem, PA
- District Court 07-1-02 – Bristol, PA
- District Court 07-1-03 – Bristol, PA
- District Court 07-1-04 – Levittown, PA
- District Court 07-1-07 – Penndel, PA
- District Court 07-1-08 – Levittown, PA
- District Court 07-1-09 – Warminster, PA
- District Court 07-1-10 – Fallsington, PA
- District Court 07-1-11 – Morrisville, PA
- District Court 07-1-12 – Bensalem, PA
- District Court 07-2-01 – Richboro, PA
- District Court 07-2-02 – Warrington, PA
- District Court 07-2-05 – Quakertown, PA
- District Court 07-2-07 – Newtown, PA
- District Court 07-2-08 – New Britain, PA
- District Court 07-3-01 – Doylestown, PA
- District Court 07-3-02 – Jamison, PA
- District Court 07-3-03 – Ottsville, PA
Why District Court Hearings Matter
Many people underestimate the importance of District Court hearings because they are seen as “just the beginning.” But a strong defense at this level can result in:
- Dismissal of charges
- Reduction of charges
- Negotiation of favorable bail or plea agreements
- Preservation of your record
Working with an experienced Bucks County criminal defense attorney from the start can greatly impact the trajectory of your case.