About Pretrial Services
Pretrial Services (PTS) falls under the Supervision Services Department within Montgomery County, PA. The Assessment Unit, which is located at the Montgomery County Correctional Facility (MCCF) assesses individuals charged on criminal charges. Defendants charged and subsequently released on a summons do not qualify for this service. PTS completes a criminal background check and incorporates its’ finding into a risk assessment. Staff gather demographic information and complete a financial assessment for the court. PTS staff also complete a public defender application if the defendant desires representation by the office for future court proceedings. The Monitoring Unit provides an alternative to detention by monitoring a defendant’s performance through the pretrial period. Pretrial Services Officers monitor a defendant’s adherence to court-ordered release conditions, help ensure court appearance, and refer individuals to outside agencies for any requested service needs.
“The fundamental tradition in the country is that one charged with a crime is not, in ordinary circumstances, imprisoned until after a judgment of guilt.”
Justice William O. Douglas