[coolio]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: Illinois.

My father (also the landlord) was involved in an incident with our neighbor (also the tenant). The neighbor vandalized some of our property. When he saw my dad, he was very aggressive and pushed my father. My dad did not touch him or fight back. My dad who was not injured, left and called the police. The neighbor escaped. When the cops came, The neighbor was charged with battery but was not arrested as he was able to escape.
Several days later, the neighbor got into an argument with my aunt (another landlord) and the police was called. He was arrested based on the earlier battery charges against my dad and was let out after posting bail. A court date was scheduled.
My question is Who will be pressing charges in the upcoming court date. Is the State of Illinois pressing charges against the neighbor or will my dad also press charges. Will the neighbor be dismissed if my dad ends up not pressing charges. Does my dad need an attorney? Is he a plaintiff or a witness (If the state will be pressing charges).
What should we expect for the upcoming court date. The neighbor has a previous history of assault and battery and has served jail time for that, including the assault of a police officer.
Thank you for your help.

[cdwjava]

The state pursues criminal charges. Your family members are victims and witnesses and do not need an attorney for the state to prosecute the attacker.

- Carl