August 5, 2025 | Criminal Law
You often hear the phrase “press charges” in crime dramas and even everyday conversation. In reality, the meaning is a bit more nuanced, as pressing charges doesn’t work quite the way many people think. While victims do play a role in starting the legal process, only the government can formally bring criminal charges.
Here’s what you should know if you’re wondering what it actually means to press charges in Ohio.
Who Can File Criminal Charges?
In Ohio, private citizens do not have the authority to bring criminal charges on their own. That role belongs to a prosecutor, a government lawyer who represents the state. When a crime is reported, law enforcement officers may investigate the situation and submit their findings to the prosecutor’s office. From there, it’s up to the prosecutor to decide whether charges will be filed.
Victims can certainly file a police report and ask for charges to be pursued against the defendant. However, prosecutors can move forward with a case even if the victim doesn’t want to cooperate. Likewise, if a victim wants charges filed but the prosecutor doesn’t believe there’s enough evidence, they can decline to proceed.
In short, pressing charges usually means reporting a crime and asking that the offender be prosecuted, but the ultimate decision lies with the state.
How Can a Victim Report a Crime in Ohio?
If you’ve been the victim of a crime in Ohio, you can start the process by doing the following:
- Call 911 or your local law enforcement agency to report the incident
- Provide a statement and any evidence you have, such as photographs or text messages
- Cooperate with investigators as they collect more details
Once the police have completed their report, it may be forwarded to the prosecutor for review. The prosecutor then evaluates whether criminal charges are appropriate based on the severity of the crime and other factors.
Can a Victim Drop Charges in Ohio?
This is one of the most misunderstood parts of the criminal justice system. In Ohio, once charges are filed, the case belongs to the state, not the victim. That means you cannot simply “drop the charges” if you change your mind. You can choose not to cooperate, but prosecutors may still go forward if they believe they have enough evidence to proceed without your testimony.
This approach is especially common in cases involving domestic violence or threats. Ohio prosecutors may use other forms of evidence, such as recorded 911 calls or witness statements, to move the case forward regardless of the victim’s wishes.
What Happens After Charges Are Filed?
Once charges are filed, the defendant is formally notified through an arrest or a court summons. They will then go through the court process, which may include:
- Arraignment: The defendant enters a plea
- Pretrial hearings: The court addresses legal issues or motions
- Trial or plea deal: The case is resolved either through a plea agreement or a trial
- Sentencing: If convicted, the defendant will receive penalties such as jail time or fines
Victims may be asked to testify, submit an impact statement, or attend court hearings. They also have the right to be informed and consulted at various stages under Ohio’s crime victim rights laws.
Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer if You Need Legal Help
In Ohio, “pressing charges” is really about starting a process that only the government can carry out. Victims can report crimes and express their wishes, but prosecutors make the final call. If you’re involved in a criminal case, it may help to speak with an attorney to better understand your rights and options.
Schedule a free consultation with an experienced criminal defense lawyer at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers today to learn more.
Contact the Cincinnati Domestic Violence Attorneys at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers For Help Today
For more information, contact the domestic violence attorneys at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers give us a call today at (513) 333-0014 or visit us at our Cincinnati Law Office.
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