Can I ask the DPCP to drop charges?

Prosecutorial discretion belongs to the DPCP and is exercised independently. Representations are normally made through defence counsel, not directly by an accused.

Is the DPCP the same as the police?

No. Police investigate; the DPCP decides whether charges proceed and conducts the prosecution.

Who do I contact if I'm a victim?

Victim services and the crime victims compensation scheme (IVAC) assist victims. The DPCP has obligations to inform victims about proceedings.

DPCP — Quebec's Criminal and Penal Prosecution Service

Directeur des poursuites criminelles et pénales (DPCP)

Director of Criminal and Penal Prosecutions

The DPCP conducts criminal and penal prosecutions in Quebec, deciding independently whether charges proceed based on the evidence and the public interest. It is not a court and does not decide guilt. If you are charged, the DPCP is the opposing party — which is precisely why you should speak to defence counsel before speaking to anyone.

What it does

Decides whether to authorise charges
Conducts criminal and penal prosecutions
Discloses the case to the defence
Makes sentencing submissions

Matters it hears

Criminal Code prosecutions
Provincial penal prosecutions
Youth criminal justice matters
Proceeds of crime and forfeiture applications

Appeals & review

Prosecution decisions are not appealable as such; outcomes are determined by the courts, with appeals to the Cour supérieure or Cour d'appel.

Appeal and review deadlines are short and strictly applied. Treat the decision date as the start of a clock.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ask the DPCP to drop charges?: Prosecutorial discretion belongs to the DPCP and is exercised independently. Representations are normally made through defence counsel, not directly by an accused.
Is the DPCP the same as the police?: No. Police investigate; the DPCP decides whether charges proceed and conducts the prosecution.
Who do I contact if I'm a victim?: Victim services and the crime victims compensation scheme (IVAC) assist victims. The DPCP has obligations to inform victims about proceedings.

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General information about jurisdiction and process, not legal advice. LegalCounselNearMe is not a law firm and is not affiliated with Directeur des poursuites criminelles et pénales (DPCP). Procedures, forms and fees change — the official site is authoritative.