What is meant by 'prosecutorial discretion'?

Prosecutorial discretion refers to the authority of a prosecutor to make decisions about whether to initiate or discontinue criminal charges against an individual. This means that a prosecutor can evaluate the evidence, the severity of the crime, the circumstances surrounding the case, and the interests of justice to determine if pursuing a prosecution is appropriate. This ability is crucial in the criminal justice system as it allows prosecutors to prioritize cases based on available resources and the likelihood of obtaining a conviction, ensuring that attention is given to those cases that merit prosecution.

In contrast, the other options relate to different aspects of the legal process. The ability to appeal a case decision involves higher courts and is not within the scope of a prosecutor’s role. Judicial powers to dismiss a case pertain to the judge's authority, not the prosecutor’s. Finally, the role of jurors is centered around determining guilt or innocence in a trial, which is separate from the decision-making powers held by prosecutors regarding charges.