Magisterial District Court 05-2-36 – Pittsburgh, PA

Magisterial District Court 05-2-36: Greenfield and Hazelwood

Judicial Services and Jurisdiction

The Magisterial District Court 05-2-36, located on Murray Avenue in the Greenfield neighborhood, serves as a primary point of contact for the legal system in specific sections of Pittsburgh. This court operates under the Fifth Judicial District of Pennsylvania and presides over legal matters arising within Pittsburgh Wards 18, 29, 30, and 32. These areas encompass neighborhoods such as Greenfield, Hazelwood, and parts of Squirrel Hill and Carrick. The court plays a vital role in the community by resolving minor disputes, enforcing traffic laws, and conducting preliminary criminal proceedings.

Case Types and Responsibilities

This Magisterial District Judge handles a diverse docket of cases, ensuring accessible justice for local residents. The court's specific responsibilities include:

• Criminal Preliminary Arraignments and Hearings: The judge presides over initial appearances for misdemeanor and felony charges to determine if there is sufficient evidence to transfer the case to the Court of Common Pleas. This includes setting bail conditions.
• Summary Offenses: Adjudication of minor criminal citations, such as disorderly conduct, harassment, and retail theft.
• Traffic and Non-Traffic Citations: Processing and hearing cases related to moving violations, parking tickets, and local ordinance breaches.
• Civil Disputes: Resolution of civil complaints (small claims) where the damages sought do not exceed $12,000.
• Landlord-Tenant Disputes: Handling eviction proceedings, security deposit disputes, and judgments for possession of real property.

Important Visit Information

Visitors to the courtroom at 4301 Murray Avenue should be aware of strict procedural rules. Security screening is mandatory for all entrants. Electronic devices, including cell phones, must be silenced or turned off completely while court is in session. It is advisable to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to a scheduled hearing. Payment for fines and costs is typically accepted via cash, money order, or certified check; personal checks are often restricted, and credit card payments may require an additional processing fee or must be made online via the Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System portal.