The general requirements for a misdemeanor investigation
When a misdemeanor offence occurs, the local law enforcement agency officers establish an investigation immediately. For a successful report, the investigators are required to collect evidence which may include obtaining witness statements. Also, the process requires a well-prepared offence report. The report must then go through the Criminal District Attorney's misdemeanor intake section (Kohler, 2013). The case should then undergo a review process to determine all the essential elements of the offence. Upon getting the details, filing of the lawsuit can take place through a complaint and information document.
Most common information that may be needed to document a misdemeanor investigation
To document a misdemeanor investigation, information regarding the incident must be available. The information may include the physical pieces of evidence obtained from the crime scene, such as fingerprints (Kohler, 2013). Also, the details of the people involved and all the possible witnesses may be needed. The records of the equipment or weapons used during the incident may also be required. The information can always be made available from numerous sources and is vital for compiling a comprehensive investigative report.
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Importance of proper documentation of misdemeanor investigations and the role of note-taking
Documenting the crime scene during a misdemeanor investigation may involve photography, note-taking and sketching (Kohler, 2013). Proper documentation of this type of inquiry simplifies the process of court preparation. Also, high-quality documents are an essential aspect of the whole investigation process. The most accurate records play a critical role in the successful conclusion of the case.
Also, taking notes during the investigation allows the investigator to focus on the most critical aspects of the suspect’s behaviours during questioning. Field notes also provide brief written details of how the events unfolded and other information that is necessary for creating the offence report.
Reference
Kohler-Hausmann, I. (2013). Misdemeanor justice: Control without conviction. 393 American Journal of Sociology , 119 (2), 351-400.
