Pennsylvania § 5977 - Prisoner from another state summoned to testify in this Commonwealth.

Full text of Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 5977 — Prisoner from another state summoned to testify in this Commonwealth., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 5977. Prisoner from another state summoned to testify in this Commonwealth.

If a person confined in a penal institution in any other state may be a material witness in a criminal action pending in a court of record or in a grand jury investigation in this Commonwealth, a judge of the court may certify:

(1) that there is a criminal proceeding or investigation by a grand jury or a criminal action pending in the court;

(2) that a person who is confined in a penal institution in the other state may be a material witness in the proceeding, investigation or action; and

(3) that the presence of the person will be required during a specified time.

The certificate shall be presented to a judge of a court of record in the other state having jurisdiction over the prisoner confined and a notice shall be given to the Attorney General of the state in which the prisoner is confined.

Transfer of Functions. The powers and duties of the Attorney General and/or the Department of Justice contained in section 5977 were transferred to the Office of General Counsel by section 502 of the act of October 15, 1980, P.L.950, No.164, known as the Commonwealth Attorneys Act, effective January 20, 1981.

Source: official Pennsylvania text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsylvania § 5977

What does Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 5977 cover?

Section 5977 ("Prisoner from another state summoned to testify in this Commonwealth.") 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 § 5977?

A common citation format is "Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 5977" (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 § 5977 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.