Pennsylvania § 593 - Alternative method of testimony.
Full text of Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 593 — Alternative method of testimony., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 593. Alternative method of testimony.
(a) Applicability.--In a proceeding before the department, an alternative method of testimony shall be utilized if both of the following apply:
(1) A child is the subject or material witness to a substantiated report of child abuse or sexual abuse or exploitation by a party to a proceeding under this chapter.
(2) An alternative method of testimony is necessary to protect and promote the best interests of the child.
(b) Due process rights.--Nothing in this section is intended to deprive a party to the proceeding of the party's due process rights.
(c) Petition.--A petition on a form developed by the department to utilize the provisions of this section may be made on behalf of the child. The department shall approve or deny the petition. The petition may be made by:
(1) A parent.
(2) A guardian.
(3) A court-appointed special advocate.
(4) An attorney representing the department or a county agency in the proceeding in which the child will testify.
(5) A court-appointed attorney representing the child in any other matter.
(6) Any other individual in loco parentis to the child.
(d) Definition.--For purposes of this section, the term "alternative method of testimony" shall mean a procedural accommodation that will aid a child in providing testimony in a proceeding before the department. The accommodation may include, but not be limited to:
(1) Allowing the child access to a person, animal or object to provide emotional support or mitigate emotional trauma to the child during the proceeding.
(2) A contemporaneous alternative method of testimony as defined in 42 Pa.C.S. § 5982 (relating to definitions).
(3) Other nontraditional methods of taking testimony as necessary to provide emotional support or mitigate emotional trauma to the child.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsylvania § 593
What does Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 593 cover?
Section 593 ("Alternative method of testimony.") is part of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, the codified statutory law of Pennsylvania. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Pennsylvania § 593?
A common citation format is "Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 593" (Pennsylvania). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Pennsylvania law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Pennsylvania official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Pennsylvania attorney.
How does Pennsylvania § 593 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania.