Q: Can I choose who to charge in a breaking and entering case? (Washington DC)
I had an incident occur today where three people I know broke my front door and proceeded to enter my residence without my permission or knowledge. Can I charge two of the three with breaking and entering and totally absolve the third of any wrongdoing or would all three most likely get prosecuted if I chose to go further with this. I should have video proof of all three people being involved.
A: You can sue in court for trespass and related damage. If you report the matter to the police, they may investigate all 3 people, and the DA solely (nobody else) determines who to charge. More details are necessary to provide a professional analysis of your issue. The best first step is an Initial Consultation with an Attorney. You can read more about me, my credentials, awards, honors, testimonials, and media appearances/ publications on my law practice website, www.AEesq.com. I practice law in CA, NY, MA, and DC in the following areas of law: Business & Contracts, Criminal Defense, Divorce & Child Custody, and Education Law. This answer does not constitute legal advice; make any predictions, guarantees, or warranties; or create any Attorney-Client relationship.
A: If three people used force to enter your house they committed a burglary, a criminal offense. If you reported the incident to the police an investigation should be conducted. Ultimately the government will determine who is charged, and what crimes they may have committed.
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