Summary
In Pennsylvania, dismissing a domestic violence charge requires providing evidence that supports your claim, such as photos, medical records, and witness statements. If you never pressed charges, the case might have been initiated by the police or prosecutor. The prosecutor will review the police report and decide whether to proceed. Its crucial to gather evidence supporting your explanation and consult with a defense attorney for guidance. If a police report was filed, ensure you have documented the injury and obtained medical records. Witness statements can also be beneficial. Consider seeking legal advice to effectively present your case.Full Conversation
What needs to happen for a domestic violence charge to be dismissed in PA?
To better assist you with your question about dismissing a domestic violence charge in Pennsylvania, could you please provide more details about the current status of the case? For instance, is it still in the investigation phase, or has it already gone to court?
Someone thought my husband hit me because of a mark on my face but in all reality i tripped and fell on the sidewalk
Thank you for providing more details about your situation. In Pennsylvania, for a domestic violence charge to be dismissed, the following can be considered:
- **Evidence**: Provide evidence that supports your statement, such as medical records or witness testimony.
- **Recant Statement**: You may need to provide a statement under oath clarifying the misunderstanding.
- **Legal Representation**: Consult with a defense attorney to present your case effectively.
Is the case currently in court, or are charges still pending?
I never pressed charges in the first place though
Thank you for clarifying. Since you never pressed charges, it’s possible that the case was initiated by the police or prosecutor based on the observed evidence.
- **Police Report:** Verify if a police report was filed.
- **Prosecutor's Decision:** The prosecutor decides whether to proceed with the case.
- **Evidence:** Gather and present evidence supporting your explanation.
Is there a court date scheduled or any formal notification received?
A police report was filed.
Thank you for the information. Since a police report was filed, the next steps typically include:
- **Prosecutor Review:** The prosecutor will review the police report and evidence to decide whether to file charges.
- **Evidence Collection:** Gather any evidence that supports your statement (e.g., medical records, witness statements).
- **Legal Advice:** Consult with a defense attorney for guidance.
Is there a scheduled court date or any formal notification you have received?
So pictures showing it was an injury from a fall and not a bruise? Would that help?
Yes, pictures showing the injury was from a fall can help. Ensure to:
- **Document the Injury:** Take clear photos of the injury and the location where you fell.
- **Medical Records:** Obtain medical records documenting the fall.
- **Witness Statements:** Gather statements from witnesses who saw the fall.
Is there a scheduled court date or any formal notification you have received?