Rule 21.02 Misdemeanors - Information - Prosecuting Attorney

If you're charged with a misdemeanor in Missouri, the case usually starts when the prosecuting attorney files a document called an "information." This is different from a felony charge, which often requires a grand jury indictment. For misdemeanors, the prosecutor can file charges simply based on their own belief and information that a crime happened.

However, the prosecutor can't just make an accusation without backing it up. They have to include a statement explaining why there's probable cause to believe the person committed the crime. This statement has to follow the format set out in Rule 21.04.

In plain terms, this rule gives prosecutors a straightforward way to charge someone with a misdemeanor. It skips some of the extra steps used in more serious felony cases, but it still requires the prosecutor to show a real reason for believing the charge is justified.