The phrase referencing expenses associated with initiating legal action is often misleading. In the criminal justice system, the decision to prosecute a case rests solely with the prosecuting attorney, a government official. The alleged victim does not directly pay for the processes of investigation, arrest, or prosecution. For example, if an individual reports a theft to the police, the state, not the individual, decides whether to pursue charges against the suspect.
Understanding this distinction is crucial for citizens’ awareness of their rights and responsibilities within the legal framework. The state’s burden to prosecute ensures a uniform application of the law, regardless of an individual’s financial capacity. Historically, this system aimed to prevent private vendettas and ensure that justice is administered impartially based on evidence and legal standards.