Withdrawing your complaint

This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.

WHAT will happen if you want to withdraw your complaint?

If no one has been charged it is likely that will be the end of the matter.

There are occasions when allegations are made that are subsequently found to be false and malicious. In these circumstances you could be charged with wasting police time.

But if there is a significant risk to the victim or to others the CPS may decide the public interest in going ahead with a prosecution outweighs the victim’s wishes.

When a decision is taken that the case should proceed you may have to give evidence even against your wishes and you could be summonsed to court if you refuse.

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