Q: I filed an report for physical violence against my dad but the other day after he went to the jail i went to the police
I filed an report for physical violence against my dad but the other day after he went to the jail i went to the police station and tried to take down the statement they said that was impossible and i only can do that in the courthouse and after that now the judge has called us and i forgave my dad cause it was just an argument nothing specific but under the pressure i said a lot of bad things in the statement so what can i do or say to the judge when i go into court
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A:
When you go to court, it's important to be honest with the judge about your feelings and intentions. You can explain that you have forgiven your father and wish to retract your statement, but be aware that the decision to proceed with the case is ultimately up to the prosecutor, not the victim.
In domestic violence cases, it's common for prosecutors to continue with the case even if the victim wishes to retract their statement. This is due to the serious nature of domestic violence and the concern for the victim's safety.
If you felt pressured or were under duress when you made the statement, you can share this with the judge. However, it's crucial to be truthful and not to make false statements in court.
It might be beneficial to seek legal advice or counsel before your court appearance. A lawyer can guide you on how to appropriately express your wishes to the court and can also help you understand the legal implications of retracting a statement in a domestic violence case.
Remember, the court's priority is to ensure justice and safety for all involved. It's important to clearly communicate your perspective while respecting the legal process.
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