Once a charging request is sent to the Prosecutor's Office by law enforcement for review, the report is assigned to one of the Deputy Prosecuting Attorneys. The report is evaluated to determine if there is enough evidence to file charges. One of 3 things will occur:
- No charges are filed due to lack of evidence or other considerations;
- Further investigation is required and law enforcement is asked to obtain additional information; or
- Charges are filed in a document called an Information. It is important to remember that if charges are filed, it is on behalf of the State of Washington and not the crime victim. The Deputy Prosecuting Attorney represents the State of Washington and does not represent victims or witnesses of the crime.