nol. pros.
A Latin phrase meaning “to be unwilling to prosecute.” A nolle prosequi is a prosecutor’s formal entry on the record indicating that he or she will no longer prosecute a pending criminal charge against the defendant . A nolle prosequi acts as a dismissal of the charges, usually without prejudice . In some states , a nolle prosequi after jeopardy attaches amounts to an acquittal and a bar to prosecution. Generally, a prosecutor can enter a nolle prosequi at any stage after indictment and until the imposition of a sentence . Some states, like Michigan , require that the prosecutor obtain the court’s leave to nolle prosequi charges. Additionally, in some states, like Arkansas , the prosecutor is required to show good cause in order to obtain the courts leave.
[Last reviewed in June of 2020 by the Wex Definitions Team ]
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