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What does "stet" mean?
Anonymous2 views3 answers
Adding to Mr. Scherr's accurate answer, a stet is a means to resolve of a criminal charge when the prosecutor is willing to forego prosecution of the charge, but not quite willing to outright dismiss it. It is inactive, meaning the case is not scheduled for trial and will not be unless the prosecutor or the defendant file a motion requesting it be set back in for trial. Mr. Scherr outlines the time frames and grounds needed to do that, but generally, a case placed on the stet docket is intended to remain there without ever coming to trial. It can be expunged after 3 years. It is not a conviction, nor is it a form of probation, and the defendant never admits guilt to the charge. If it has been three years, file a petition to expunge it, or hire a lawyer to do so.
Adding to Mr. Scherr's accurate answer, a stet is a means to resolve of a criminal charge when the prosecutor is willing to forego prosecution of the charge, but not quite willing to outright dismiss it. It is inactive, meaning the case is not scheduled for trial and will not be unless the prosecutor or the defendant file a motion requesting it be set back in for trial. Mr. Scherr outlines the time frames and grounds needed to do that, but generally, a case placed on the stet docket is intended to remain there without ever coming to trial. It can be expunged after 3 years. It is not a conviction, nor is it a form of probation, and the defendant never admits guilt to the charge. If it has been three years, file a petition to expunge it, or hire a lawyer to do so.
Scott R. ScherrCar / Auto Accident LawyerLutherville, MD ·
A stet means that the case was placed on the inactive docket. The case can be reopened within one year for any reason. It can be reopened for good cause between 1 and 3 years. After 3 years, it cannot be reopened. Sometimes there are conditions to the stet such as staying away from the victim, community service, staying out of trouble, etc.
Only the State's Attorney or Defendant may reopen a stet and if 3 years have expired since the stet was entered, it is too late.
