Q: How do I recant a police statement about my ex in PA?
I reported my ex to the police over a month ago concerning an incident and now wish to recant my statement. No legal action has been initiated, though officials from Children and Youth Services have spoken to both me and my ex. I haven't discussed recanting with a lawyer or law enforcement officer yet. How can I proceed to recant my statement?
A:
If you wish to recant your statement, the first step is to contact the law enforcement agency that took your original report. Be honest and explain that you would like to retract your statement. While you can express your desire to change or withdraw your statement, keep in mind that law enforcement may still pursue their investigation regardless of your recantation, especially if the incident involved serious allegations or potential harm.
Since Children and Youth Services (CYS) has already spoken with both you and your ex, it’s important to be aware that their investigation might continue, even if you withdraw your statement. They are focused on the safety and well-being of the child, and their involvement may not be influenced by the retraction.
You should also consider consulting with a lawyer before formally withdrawing your statement. They can help you understand any potential legal implications of recanting and advise you on the best course of action. It’s important to approach the situation carefully and make sure that your rights are protected while also considering the broader context of the case.
Justia Ask A Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get free answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask A Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.
The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between Justia and you, or between any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions and you, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask A Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.
Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises, or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.