Can a 17 year old file a complaint to press charges without a parent signature?

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Can a 17 year old file a complaint to press charges without a parent signature?

If the parent did sign it can he sign papers to get the D.A. to drop them when he turn 18 by himself or do he still need the parent?

Asked on January 7, 2011 under Criminal Law, Louisiana

Answers:

M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 13 years ago | Contributor

This question is best asked to an attorney in your state.  In New York, for example, anyone of any age can file a complaint and press charges against another person so a 17 year old does not need to have a parent or guardian do so on their behalf.  Louisiana is governed by the Napoleonic Code and I would not, therefore, take what happens in New York as a probability as to what happens there.  They laws are very, very different.  The thing to do is to go to the police or the DA's office and speak with them on the matter.  They will let you know how to proceed.  Good luck to you.


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