What is District Attorney?

Definition and meaning of district attorney: A district attorney (DA) is a public official, usually elected by voters, who serves as the chief prosecutor for a specific jurisdiction, such as a county or judicial district. District attorneys can also go by titles like county prosecutor, state’s attorney, or commonwealth’s attorney. The district attorney is responsible for prosecuting criminal cases on behalf of the state or local government, ensuring that justice is served in the legal system.

The district attorney's duties include overseeing criminal investigations, deciding whether to bring charges against individuals, presenting cases in court, and working with law enforcement agencies to ensure that criminal conduct is effectively prosecuted. DAs have significant discretion in determining which cases to pursue, what charges to file, and how to allocate resources within their office. They also often raise awareness of important criminal justice issues, such as child abuse and domestic violence. 

In many jurisdictions, district attorneys are elected in partisan elections, which can introduce political considerations into their decision-making. However, the primary role of a district attorney is to uphold the law and pursue justice, regardless of political affiliation.

District attorneys play a critical role in the criminal justice system since their decisions directly impact the lives of individuals and the safety of the community. Reform efforts often focus on increasing transparency, accountability, and fairness in the DA's office, as well as ensuring that prosecutors act in the public interest rather than being influenced by political pressures.

Learn how to run for district attorney.