Virginia law grants courts discretion to enter nolle prosequi (a decision to drop charges) upon a showing of good cause, based on a motion by the Commonwealth. It also mandates the Commonwealth's duty to provide full discovery in felony and misdemeanor prosecutions, with courts able to enforce compliance. Additionally, misdemeanor cases can be prosecuted without an attorney under certain circumstances.
Nolle prosequi is a legal term allowing the court to drop charges upon a showing of good cause, typically initiated by the Commonwealth's motion.
The Commonwealth must fully disclose evidence in felony and misdemeanor cases, with ongoing duties to update discovery before and during trial.
Yes, Virginia law allows misdemeanor cases to be prosecuted without an attorney for the Commonwealth under certain conditions.
The court may order the Commonwealth to permit discovery, grant continuances, exclude undisclosed evidence, or take other appropriate actions.