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 the Contact Us.