| Nolle prosequi is the term used in many jurisdictions to describe the
prosecutor's voluntary dismissal of criminal charges. Generally the request
to "nol pros" a case is made after the filing of an indictment
or information, when the prosecutor has determined that adjudication of
the charges is not in the interest of the government. In most circumstances
the court's permission is required for the nolle prosequi to be valid.
As long a jury trial has not been commenced, the entry of a nolle prosequi
is not a adjudication on the merits of the prosecution and the legal protection
against double jeopardy will not automatically bar the charges from being
brought again in some fashion.
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