Suburban Law Enforcement Academy (SLEA) BA State Certification Practice Exam

Who must you contact to get approval for a felony charge?

1. The detective

2. The Chief of Police

3. The Officer on Duty

4. The Assistant States Attorney

The correct answer is: The Assistant States Attorney

To secure approval for a felony charge, it is essential to contact the Assistant States Attorney. Their role is to review evidence and the circumstances surrounding the case to determine if there is sufficient legal justification to pursue a felony charge. This involves assessing the facts provided by law enforcement and ensuring that all necessary legal criteria are met. The Assistant States Attorney has the legal expertise and authority to make the decision regarding whether to file charges. They also ensure that the prosecution adheres to local laws and regulations. Engaging them early in the process is vital for a successful pursuit of justice and adherence to the legal framework. While a detective can investigate and gather the facts about the case, they do not have the authority to approve charges. Similarly, the Chief of Police may oversee operations and policy but does not typically have direct involvement in the decision-making for specific charges. The Officer on Duty is focused on the current situation and may not possess the requisite legal authority or experience to approve felony charges. Therefore, it is critical to engage the Assistant States Attorney for this important legal step.