Pressing charges

After the police receive a complaint, the case is investigated and the next steps are decided. Sometimes, a statement is taken from other people connected to the case.

Investigation Begins

In many cases, the police will start an investigation. During a criminal investigation, the following typically take place:

• Statements are taken from the defendant and witnesses, including the victim.

• Other necessary evidence is gathered.

Investigation Concludes

Upon completion of the investigation, the case is sent to the prosecutor for handling. Then, one of the following will happen:

• The case is sent back for further investigation.

• The case is dropped.

• The case is concluded without an indictment.

• An indictment is issued.

Investigation Halted

The police can halt an investigation if there are deemed to be no grounds to continue it. Reasons may include:

• It becomes clear that the complaint was unfounded.

• The crime is minor and it is foreseeable that the investigation would result in unreasonably high effort and cost.

Complaint Dismissed

If the police do not investigate the case, it means the complaint has been dismissed. The police must notify the person who filed the complaint about the dismissal, and you can request a written explanation for the decision.

The decision to dismiss a complaint can be appealed to the State Prosecutor. The deadline for this is 1 month.