da: Frequently Asked Questions

Montgomery County, PA

P.O. Box 311, Norristown, PA 19404-0311
Courthouse Hours: 8:30a.m. to 4:15p.m.
Phone: 610-278-3000
Website: www.montcopa.org

Frequently Asked Questions
 
Can I report a crime to the District Attorney's Office?

All emergencies should be reported by calling “911” immediately.  In most other cases, criminal activity should be reported to the police department in which the crime occurred.  For example, if the crime occurred in Montgomery County, it should generally be reported to the police responsible for that jurisdiction – your local police department or the Pennsylvania State Police. 

Can I call the District Attorney Office for a criminal background check on someone?
 
The District Attorney's office does not perform criminal background checks for the public.  However, the Pennsylvania State Police has a service called "P.A.T.C.H.” (Pennsylvania Access To Criminal History) that is available to the public.
 
I am the victim in a domestic violence case and I want to drop charges.  How do I do drop charges?

The decision to drop charges in any criminal prosecution can only be made by an Assistant District Attorney, with the approval of a judge.  The victim's requests are taken into consideration by the assigned ADA, but the final determination as to whether or not charges will be dismissed rests solely with the District Attorney's Office.
How do I file a domestic violence complaint?

Contact your local police department.  The police are initially responsible for investigating domestic violence cases. Our Domestic Violence Unit may assist the investigation and file any appropriate criminal charges
How do I obtain a Protection From Abuse (“PFA”) Order?
Protection From Abuse (“PFA”) orders are handled by the Prothonotary's Office, which is located on the first floor of the Montgomery County Court House. The Prothonotary’s Office will provide you with the appropriate paperwork and provide further directions. The Prothonotary's Office can be reached at (610) 278-3660.
At sentencing, the judge ordered the defendant to pay me back restitution.  Is there anything I have to do to make sure restitution is, in fact, paid?
 
No.  The imposition of restitution is a condition of the defendant’s sentence, just like other conditions (fines, costs, etc.).  Therefore, failure to pay restitution is a matter between the court and the defendant.  Also, restitution payments are monitored by the Adult Probation and Parole Office.  You may telephone the Adult Probation and Parole Department at (610) 278-3448 and ask to speak with the probation or parole officer assigned to your case. The assigned officer is generally responsible for monitoring the terms of the defendant’s sentence, including restitution.
I think I have been cheated by a contractor, tradesman or other person who provides labor and/or services. Can anyone help me?


Disputes with contractors, allegations of unlawful business practives, and related issues regarding the goods and services may be civil and/or criminal matters, based upon the specific facts of your case.  You may contact the following agencies for assistance:
 
Can the District Attorney's Office help me collect on a bad check?

The District Attorney's Office has established the Bad Check Restitution Program which may be able to help you. For further information, telephone (866) 292-3593 or click here.
I would like the District Attorney’s Office to help me obtain child support for my children. Can the District Attorney help me? 

No.  The District Attorney's Office cannot provide legal advice to anyone in any civil matter, nor can we take legal action. However, the Montgomery County Domestic Relations Department may be able help you obtain child support.  For further information, telephone (610) 278-3959.

You should always consult with your lawyer regarding your rights. If you do not have a lawyer, you can contact the Montgomery County Bar Association at (610) 279-9660 for a referral.

I have been subpoenaed by the District Attorney to appear as a witness in a criminal case.  Can I get witness fees?

The court can order that you receive reasonable and necessary expenses after testifying.  However, as a witness in a criminal case it is your civic duty to attend, as well as a court-ordered duty if you have received a subpoena.  Therefore, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will not pay you a fee for participating as a witness.
What if I can't attend on the date stated in the subpoena?

If you have a conflict with the date listed on the subpoena, please immediately contact the Assistant District Attorney handling the case before the appearance date and discuss your conflict.  In most cases, we are able to accommodate your schedule and minimize any inconvenience.  If you are not sure which Assistant District Attorney is handling your case, you may telephone (610) 278-3090 or contact Victim/Witness Services.

I was cited with an offense and released by the police. Can you tell me if police actually filed criminal charges against me?

To find out whether charges have been filed against you, telephone the local police department that handled your case, and/or contact the office of Clerk of Courts at (610) 278-3346 or click here for case information.

I am a defendant and I do not like the attorney who is representing me. Can I talk the Assistant District Attorney about my case?

No. All attorneys are governed by a code of ethics which prevents them from speaking directly to any defendant who has an attorney. As long as you are represented by an attorney, we may speak only to your attorney.

I have a complaint about your office. How do I contact you and will you respond?

Please write to District Attorney Risa Vetri Ferman at the Montgomery County District Attorney's Office, P.O. Box 311 Norristown, PA 19404-0311. District Attorney Ferman, or her representative, will contact you.