If a victim does not press charges can you be convicted?

Answer

yes if the state presses charges this happens alot in a domestic dispute if the spouse will drops charges

Absolutely. Underlying the premise of criminal law, is the prerogative that the true "victim" of any criminal activity is not the particular individual harmed by the crime, but rather the whole fabric of society (represented by the state). Therefore, even though a complainant may not wish to see their assailant arrested or tried, it is the state which decides whether it will pursue the matter or not.

Sometimes, as a matter of practicality, if a victim is reluctant to cooperate in the prosecution the state will let the matter drop. However, neither the complainant`s cooperation or consent are legally required for the prosecution and conviction of a criminal offence.

First answer by ID1118378923. Last edit by Silkiten. Contributor trust: 0 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 13 [recommend question]

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Can you press charges for someone else? Can people decide to press charges or not? Is the victim always asked to press charges? What if the victim doesnt want to press charges? Can a felony be reduced if the victim drops charges? If a victim drops charges can the police carry it on? Will charges be dismissed if the victim does not show up? What if you do not want to press charges any longer on someone? Can the state pick up a case if the victim didn't press charges?