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Simple English definitions for legal terms
Prosecuting attorney
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A quick definition of Prosecuting attorney:
A prosecuting attorney is a lawyer who works for the government and is responsible for making sure that people who break the law are punished. They investigate crimes, decide what charges to bring against someone, and go to court to try to prove that the person is guilty. They also work with police officers to gather evidence and talk to witnesses. Prosecuting attorneys are sometimes called district attorneys or state's attorneys.
A more thorough explanation:
A prosecuting attorney is a lawyer who represents the government in criminal cases. They are either elected or appointed by local government officials to represent the state in a criminal case brought in a judicial district or designated county.
Their main responsibilities include:
- Presenting the case against individuals suspected of violating the law
- Initiating and directing further criminal investigations
- Deciding what criminal charges to file
- Guiding and recommending sentences for offenders
- Participating in grand jury proceedings
For example, if someone is accused of stealing a car, the prosecuting attorney will investigate the case, decide what charges to file, and present the case in court. They will also recommend a sentence for the offender if they are found guilty.
Prosecuting attorneys have the authority to investigate persons, grant immunity to witnesses and alleged offenders, and plea bargain with defendants. They can be appointed by the chief executive of the jurisdiction or elected by local voters. In the federal system, the equivalent of a district attorney is a United States Attorney, each appointed by the President.