§ 631.21 — Dismissal of Action
Plain-Language Summary
The court may dismiss a criminal case on its own initiative or on the prosecutor's motion, in the interest of justice. The reasons for dismissal must be stated in a written order and entered in the court record, and the prosecutor's recommendation must be filed publicly.
631.21 DISMISSAL OF ACTION.
The court may order a criminal action, whether prosecuted upon indictment or complaint, to be dismissed. The court may order dismissal of an action either on its own motion or upon motion of the prosecuting attorney and in furtherance of justice. If the court dismisses an action, the reasons for the dismissal must be set forth in the order and entered upon the minutes. The recommendations of the prosecuting officer in reference to dismissal, with reasons for dismissal, must be stated in writing and filed as a public record with the official files of the case.
History:
(10725) RL s 5378; 1927 c 296; 1985 c 265 art 11 s 1; 1986 c 444
History: History: (10725) RL s 5378; 1927 c 296; 1985 c 265 art 11 s 1; 1986 c 444