For an arrested person, the criminal court process begins when police take them to jail. But legally, an arrest is not the same as a prosecution.
While an arrest brings a person into the criminal legal system, only a prosecutor can decide whether to seek a conviction or decline prosecution. The Deason Center investigates what happens in this crucial decision making process. By highlighting best practices in screening and charging, the Center is helping prosecutors end unnecessary charging delays and make prompter charging decisions.
