An affidavit of non-prosecution is simply a sworn statement (typically notarized) from the victim stating that he or she does not wish to pursue charges and wishes charges against the defendant to be dismissed (here is an example of what an affidavit of non-prosecution looks like).
Signing a document with false statements can lead to charges of perjury. Affiant is of sound mind. When you sign an affidavit, you are saying the information provided is true to the best of your personal knowledge. Therefore, the person signing needs to have the mental capacity to understand what they are signing.
If the alleged victim wishes to drop the charges and sign an affidavit of non-prosecution, the best practice is to have the victim represented by her own attorney or to have the defendant's attorney (or their investigator) assist with preparing the affidavit.
The law considers signing an affidavit equivalent to testifying under oath. This means knowingly including false information when signing one of these documents is an act of perjury. The penalty for perjury varies from state to state but could include fines, community service, or jail time.
In some cases, affidavits can be used as admissible evidence. However, affidavits are usually used in courts or legal proceedings as additional evidence in conjunction with witness statements.
I am the complaining witness against _______________________, the Defendant in the above referenced case. It is my wish and desire that all charges in relation to these matters be dismissed, that there be no further action taken thereon and I do not intend to pursue the prosecution of said Defendant.
How to fill out the Request for Waiver of Prosecution Form? Enter your personal information including your name and driver's license number. Provide your current address and phone number. State the reasons for requesting the discontinuation of prosecution. Sign the form in the presence of a notary public.
Although affidavits are considered legal documents, anyone can draft one. As long as it is signed, witnessed, and notarized correctly, the affidavit will be valid. This means that you do not need to ask a lawyer to create an affidavit.
Some criminal cases brought to a prosecutor might not result in criminal charges being filed. A prosecutor may decline to proceed with a case for various reasons, such as insufficient evidence, an uncooperative witness, or a violation of the suspect's constitutional rights.
Consequences of Signing an Affidavit Since you are signing a document under oath, it is the same as testifying in a court of law. If you provide information that is false or lie on the affidavit, you could be fined for perjury. Penalties could include monetary fines, community service, and even jail time.