Pennsylvania § 6331 - Release from detention or commencement of proceedings.
Full text of Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 6331 — Release from detention or commencement of proceedings., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 6331. Release from detention or commencement of proceedings.
If a child is brought before the court or delivered to a detention or shelter care facility designated by the court, the intake or other authorized officer of the court shall immediately make an investigation and release the child unless it appears that his detention or shelter care is warranted or required under section 6325 (relating to detention of child). The release of the child shall not prevent the subsequent filing of a petition as provided in this chapter. If he is not so released, a petition shall be promptly made and presented to the court within 24 hours or the next court business day of the admission of the child to detention or shelter care.
(Apr. 28, 1978, P.L.202, No.53, eff. 60 days)
Suspension by Court Rule. Section 6331 was suspended by Pennsylvania Rule of Juvenile Court Procedure No. 800(11), amended December 30, 2005, insofar as it is inconsistent with Rule 242 relating to detention hearing.
Section 6331 was suspended by Pennsylvania Rule of Juvenile Court Procedure No. 1800(7), adopted August 21, 2006, insofar as it is inconsistent with Rules 1242 and 1330(A) relating to general conduct of shelter care hearing and petition: filing, contents, function, aggravated circumstances.
Cross References. Section 6331 is referred to in section 6304 of this title.
Source: official Pennsylvania text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsylvania § 6331
What does Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 6331 cover?
Section 6331 ("Release from detention or commencement of proceedings.") 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 § 6331?
A common citation format is "Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 6331" (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 § 6331 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.