FAQs

How do I file a private criminal complaint?: The Private Criminal Complaint form can be obtained at the Magisterial District Judge's office or at the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts website (www.courts.state.pa.us) in the area where the alleged crime was committed. The complaint, unless the crime is a summary offense, after filing in the Magisterial District Judge's Office will be forwarded to the District Attorney's Office for approval. When the District Attorney returns the approved complaint, a hearing will be scheduled. If the District Attorney disapproves the Complaint, you can petition the Court of Common Pleas for a review of the decision. (Pa. Rules of Criminal Procedure 506(2)).

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District Attorney

1. Can I report a crime to the District Attorney's Office?: All emergencies should be reported by calling “911” immediately. In most other cases, criminal activity should be reported to the police department in which the crime occurred. For example, if the crime occurred in Washington County, it should generally be reported to the police responsible for that jurisdiction – your local police department or the Pennsylvania State Police.

2. How do I file a private criminal complaint?: The Private Criminal Complaint form can be obtained at the Magisterial District Judge's office or at the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts website (www.courts.state.pa.us) in the area where the alleged crime was committed. The complaint, unless the crime is a summary offense, after filing in the Magisterial District Judge's Office will be forwarded to the District Attorney's Office for approval. When the District Attorney returns the approved complaint, a hearing will be scheduled. If the District Attorney disapproves the Complaint, you can petition the Court of Common Pleas for a review of the decision. (Pa. Rules of Criminal Procedure 506(2)).

3. How do I file a domestic violence complaint?: Contact your local police department. The police are initially responsible for investigating domestic violence cases. Our Special Victims Investigation and Prosecution Unit may assist the investigation and file any appropriate criminal charges

4. I am the victim in a domestic violence case and I want to drop charges. How do I do drop charges?: The decision to drop charges in any criminal prosecution can only be made by an Assistant District Attorney, with the approval of a judge. The victim's requests are taken into consideration by the assigned ADA, but the final determination as to whether or not charges will be dismissed rests solely with the District Attorney's Office.

5. I think I have been cheated by a contractor, tradesman or other person who provides labor and/or services. Can anyone help me?: Disputes with contractors, allegations of unlawful business practices, and related issues regarding the goods and services may be civil and/or criminal matters, based upon the specific facts of your case. You may contact the following agencies for assistance:
Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Consumer Protection 800-441-2555
Local Police Departments

6. I would like the District Attorney’s Office to help me obtain child support for my children. Can the District Attorney help me?: No. The District Attorney's Office cannot provide legal advice to anyone in any civil matter, nor can we take legal action. However, the Washington County Domestic Relations Department may be able help you obtain child support. For further information, telephone (724) 228-6756. You should always consult with your lawyer regarding your rights. If you do not have a lawyer, you can contact the Washington County Bar Association at (724) 225-6710 for a referral.

7. I believe that someone is taking financial advantage of an older adult or that the older adult is being abused, what should I do?: If it is an emergency contact 911 for the police. To report elder abuse (including financial exploitation) contact Protective Services at 1-800-537-2424 or (724) 489-8086. Your name will remain confidential by state law. The Washington County District Attorneys Office works closely with Protective Services on Elder Abuse cases.

8. I have been subpoenaed by the District Attorney to appear as a witness in a criminal case. Can I get witness fees?: The court can order that you receive reasonable and necessary expenses after testifying. However, as a witness in a criminal case it is your civic duty to attend, as well as a court-ordered duty if you have received a subpoena. Therefore, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will not pay you a fee for participating as a witness.

9. What if I can't attend on the date stated in the subpoena?: If you have a conflict with the date listed on the subpoena, please immediately contact the Assistant District Attorney handling the case before the appearance date and discuss your conflict. In most cases, we are able to accommodate your schedule and minimize any inconvenience. If you are not sure which Assistant District Attorney is handling your case, you may telephone (724) 228-6790.

10. I am a defendant and I do not like the attorney who is representing me. Can I talk to the Assistant District Attorney about my case?: No. All attorneys are governed by a code of ethics which prevents them from speaking directly to any defendant who is represented by an attorney. As long as you are represented by an attorney, we may speak only to your attorney

11. I have a complaint about your office. How do I contact you and will you respond?: Please write to District Attorney Eugene A. Vittone at the Washington County District Attorney's Office, 1 South Main Street Suite 1003 Washington, PA 15301. District Attorney Vittone, or his representative, will contact you.