What is the purpose of a criminal complaint?

A criminal complaint is a legal document that initiates a criminal case. It is filed by a prosecutor or a citizen with a police officer or other law enforcement official. In Washington, it describes the offense and informs the defendant of the criminal accusation. The purpose of a criminal complaint is to provide the court with a formal, written record of the accusation. This written record allows the court to ensure that the accused is afforded due process. It also provides an outline of the facts and acts that are alleged to have been committed. A criminal complaint also helps to establish probable cause, which is a reasonable suspicion that the accused person has committed a crime. In order to proceed with a criminal case, there must be sufficient evidence to prove that the accused is likely guilty of the accusation. The criminal complaint is also one of the initial steps in the criminal process by which the defendant learns the nature of the charge against them. By being aware of the allegations against them, the defendant can take active steps to protect their rights, such as hiring a lawyer or investigating the circumstances surrounding the accusation. In short, a criminal complaint is an important document that initiates the criminal justice process and provides defendants with a record of the charge against them. It ensures that defendants receive due process of law and helps to establish the facts of the case.

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What is the purpose of a criminal complaint?

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