TV shows and movies tend to exaggerate what it looks like to drop criminal charges.If the government's attorneys decide not to pursue a case, you cannot drop charges.You may be able to convince the prosecutors that they should drop the case.
Step 1: Tell the prosecutor you do not want to press charges.
A victim or key witness can have a big impact on a case.The prosecutor will drop the case if you say you don't want to send it to trial.This is also true of minor offenses.Domestic violence is a "no tolerance" offense and prosecutors will not drop charges even at the victim's request.
Step 2: The police report can have inconsistencies.
Call the police station to get a copy of the report.Paying attention to the section that describes what you told the police is important.You can change your statement if you notice anything wrong in the report.Don't lie to get the charges dropped.You could be charged with perjury or obstruction of justice.
Step 3: You can add new information to your report.
You need to convince the prosecutor to drop the charges.New information, evidence, or witnesses are usually what this is.You can't say the same thing when adding new information.If you give incorrect information to the police, consider this option.It could result in punishment for an innocent person if you made a mistake or lied.Let the police know if you think something has been taken from you.If the statement is correct, don't try to take it back completely.You could be charged with a crime.
Step 4: You can submit your changes in person
You can submit an amendment of the report at the police station.Bring photo identification to prove you are the person who filed the original report.If the case is scheduled to go before a judge, you should show up at the District or County Attorney's office.
Step 5: You should wait for the prosecutor to contact you.
Further information about the case may be requested by law enforcement.The prosecutor won't drop the charges if the police report is changed.You may be asked to testify in court if the case continues.You could be fined or arrested if you don't show up and cooperate.
Step 6: You should hire an attorney.
You can write an affidavit of non-prosecution.You don't want prosecutors to pursue the case.Make sure you check your state for the law because Texas allows these affidavits.An attorney knows how to make a statement convincing.He will stop criminal charges of your own by keeping you from changing your story.
Step 7: If you can't afford a lawyer, look for free or low-cost representation.
If you can't afford an attorney, there are other options.There are grant programs that give free counsel to low-income individuals.Pro-bono work can be done by local law firms, or you could visit the bar association's self-help clinic.Your county courthouse might be able to guide you through the process.
Step 8: The statement should be written.
A standard "affidavit of non-prosecution" form should be provided by your lawyer.A generic "affidavit of non-prosecution" may be provided by the prosecutor.You can write the affidavit yourself.Explain the evidence or factors that put the crime in a less severe light.You should make it clear that you don't think prosecution should happen.
Step 9: You can submit an affidavit.
You can pay a fee to file an affidavit in some states.You can send a copy of the statement directly to the prosecutor if there is no official affidavit system.Call the court to make sure you send the statement to the correct person.The phone number for the court can be found online.If you don't know which court is handling the case, you can search for it online.Before you try to file your affidavit, make sure you know which forms of payment the court accepts.