Dix v. Superior Court

In Dix v. Superior Court (1991) 53 Cal.3d 442, the Supreme Court held that a crime victim, or other individual, does not have a legally enforceable interest in the commencement or conduct or criminal proceedings. ( Id. at pp. 450-454.) The Court held "recognition of citizen standing to intervene in criminal prosecutions would have 'ominous' implications. It would undermine the People's status as exclusive party plaintiff in criminal actions, interfere with the prosecutor's broad discretion in criminal matters and disrupt the orderly administration of justice." ( Dix v. Superior Court, supra, 53 Cal.3d at pp. 453-454.) "Even jurisdictional challenges must be raised by the parties, and it is their responsibility, not a stranger's, to decide what matters require litigation." ( Id. at p. 454.)