Berk. Cnty. Pa. 571.2

As amended through May 6, 2024
Rule 571.2 - Waiver of Arraignment

The provisions of B.C.R.Crim.P. 571 notwithstanding, in all cases in which a Defendant is charged with crime, other than murder, the Defendant, if represented by counsel who has entered his appearance in writing, may enter a plea of "not guilty", or by notation on the Information stands mute in the presence of counsel without appearing at arraignment court. Where a notation is made that the Defendant stands mute, the Clerk of Courts shall enter a plea of "not guilty" on behalf of the Defendant. Such plea or notation that the Defendant stands mute may be entered in the District Attorney's office at any time prior to 5:00 P.M. of a day preceding arraignment court, providing the Defendant enters the plea of "not guilty" in writing upon the face of the information, or in the case where the Defendant stands mute enters such notation in writing upon the face of the information, and that the attorney who has appeared for the Defendant approves such action by likewise endorsing his name upon the information; and providing further that the Defendant and his counsel sign a waiver of the right to arraignment; further, Defendant shall be furnished documents required by the applicable Pennsylvania Rules of Criminal Procedure and Defendant and his counsel shall execute a receipt therefore.

Berk. Cnty. Pa. 571.2

Effective 1/2/2006