Frequently Asked Questions about Alleged Criminal Violations in Arlington, Edmonds, Everett, Lake Stevens, Lynnwood, Marysville, Monroe and the rest of Snohomish County, Washington

My Girlfriend (Boyfriend, Husband, Wife, Etc.) doesn’t want me to be convicted of a crime. Why won’t the prosecutor drop the charges?

In theory, prosecutors are supposed to listen to the wishes of the alleged victim in making charging decisions, whether to go forward towards trial, and in resolving the case. Unfortunately, in many cases this does not happen.

The rationale for this is varied, and in some instances may be appropriate, such as where there has been an established pattern of abusive behavior. This is not always the case, but some prosecuting authorities choose not to exercise discretion and prosecute everybody the same, even when the facts and circumstances do not warrant it.

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