Salt Lake County District Attorney's Office

If I am a victim of domestic violence and want to drop the charges, can I?
Many people incorrectly believe a victim of crime has the power to “press charges” and “drop the charges” against a defendant. The District Attorney’s Office prosecutes crimes on behalf of the State of Utah. The decision to drop charges in any criminal prosecution can only be made by a prosecutor with the approval of a judge. The victim’s wishes will be considered, but the final determination of whether or not the charges will be filed or dismissed rests with the District Attorney’s Office. If you would like to discuss your case, you should contact the deputy district attorney assigned to your case who can arrange a meeting between you, the prosecutor, and an investigator.

How do I get a protective order?
If the police were called, the officer may have gotten an emergency protective order at the time of the assault. If the police were not called, or if there was nothing that the police could do because there was not enough evidence for there to be criminal charges filed, you can seek your own protective order. You may visit the Utah Courts website at www.utcourts.gov for assistance, call the Legal Aid Society, talk to your police victim advocate, or contact the Salt Lake Area Family Justice Center at (801) 236-3370.

I don’t want to be pushed into leaving him. I just want information and help. What can I do?
Each battered women’s shelter has outreach help and walk-in centers where women who aren’t sure what to do can still get information and help. You don’t have to move into the shelter to get help from the people who work there. Contact them for safety planning, counseling referrals, and general information about what is available in the community.

Charges have been filed, but he wants to talk to me. What should I do?
Most felony cases involve a “no contact” order that directs the perpetrator to cease all contact with the victim and material witnesses. If you are unsure if this is in effect, please contact the prosecutor assigned to your case to discuss your options.