Can a victim drop charges or decide not to press charges?

It is a common myth that a victim has the power to “press charges” or “drop charges” after charges are brought against someone.  All criminal actions are prosecuted on behalf of the State of Georgia and not on behalf of any individual. The final decision whether to prosecute or not is made by the District Attorney’s Office. The opinion of the victim is very important and will be taken into consideration. However, all the facts and circumstances of the incident must be considered including, but not limited to, the severity of the crime, the criminal history of the defendant, whether the defendant has other pending charges, and the probability of the defendant committing other offenses in the future.

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1. What is the Augusta Judicial Circuit?
2. What is the relationship between the local law enforcement agencies and the District Attorney’s Office?
3. What is the purpose of a Grand Jury in criminal cases?
4. What happens at arraignment?
5. Can a victim drop charges or decide not to press charges?
6. If I get a subpoena, do I have to go to court?
7. I did not witness any crime but I got a subpoena. Why am I a witness?
8. I am afraid of the defendant. Will the defendant be present when I testify?
9. My employer is not happy that I’ll miss work when I have to go to court on my subpoena. Can I be fired?
10. As a victim, how do I find out the defendant’s next court date?
11. How do I report a crime?
12. How can I have my criminal record expunged?