http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/050719/latu083.html?.v=17
"Established in the 1970s, the First Judicial District of Pennsylvania, based in Philadelphia, was one of the first jurisdictions nationwide to operate a 24-hour, year-round pretrial service program. Today, Philadelphia Pretrial Service Division has grown to be one of largest and most structured programs for pre- and post-trial defendants anywhere. The department is essential to help the administration of criminal justice by gathering and presenting extensive background information to the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas and Municipal Court prior to an individual's release to the community and by supervising defendants once they are released."
