Frequently Asked Questions:

1).  What is the difference  between Civil and Criminal Matters?

               (A).  A Civil case is  compensation of a loss. A Criminal case is a violation
                        of a State Statue. Where as you will be punished for your wrongful
                        acts.

2).  Can I report a crime directly to the DA's office?

            (A). In general, a citizen should report the crime first to local police agency.
                   These agencies are responsible for making a report of the crime, for
                    investigating developing suspects and collecting evidence.  As a result of
                    their investigating the police agency will bring the criminal compliant to
                    the DA's Office which allows charges to be filled on an offender. In
                    most cases the DA's office will  refer you to the local police agency to
                    report the crime.

3).  I am a victim/witness in a case. How will I be informed on the case?

              (A). Where there has been a Felony, DWI, and/or Domestic Violence
                      crime committed the Victim Advocate will coordinate with you. The
                      Victim  Advocate will call or send out notices to inform you  on the
                      case. If you are a victim in these types of crimes there are a variety of
                      community and state resources, which could include restitution of
                      funds in some cases, the Victim Advocate will have that available for
                      you.  In other cases the DA's office will notify you by subpoena.
                      Victims should always notify the DA's office with a change of address
                      or phone number.

4).  I am a Victim in a domestic violence case, can I drop the charges?

             (A).  The decision to drop the charges can only be made by the prosecutor
                      assigned to the case.  Many victims seek to drop the charges after a
                      period of time, only to find themselves victimized again.  The
                      prosecutors will make every effort to prevent this, which may include
                      moving a prosecution  forward.  The victim's wishes will be consider
                      in that decision.

5).  Can I obtain legal advice from the DA's Office?

            (A).  The DA's staff cannot give out legal advice.  They also cannot take legal
                     action in Civil Matters.  You must consult a private attorney or Legal
                     Service.

6).  How can I contact the DA's office?

            (A).  The DA's office is opened 8:00am to 5:00pm Monday through Friday.
                     Each county has it's own phone number and fax. Please call the
                     appropriate county office to make an appointment pertaining to a case
                     if you are a victim or witness. If your are the defendant please contact
                     your lawyer. To get addresses or phone numbers click on Staff        

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