South Carolina criminal charges don't get dismissed just because the victim told you he or she'd drop them. a South Carolina criminal defense attorney explains why, and how you can protect yourself for the best case outcome.
Transcript
Hey folks, here's a question that we get from time to time, “the victim in my criminal case wants to drop the charges, won't that get my case dismissed”? Not necessarily for three main reasons. First it's the state's case. You should expect your case to be referred to a prosecutor which is a lawyer whose job is to convict folks like you and the victim can be subpoenaed to testify at trial against you even if it's against the victims will. Second, the victim can change their mind, it happens. Third, the victim might be lying to you that happens, too. Just because the victim says they're going to drop the charges doesn't mean you're going to get off. So don't take the victims word for it. There’s too much at stake for you and it may not win the day anyway. To give yourself the best shot at a good outcome in your case you need to sit down with an experienced criminal defense lawyer to strategize your defense. It won't cost you a thing to sit down with us. I thank you for thinking about this with me and I hope I see you soon.