What is a DA?

What is a District Attorney? 

When you hear the term District Attorney, or DA, you might think of courtroom dramas or headline news. But behind the scenes, DAs and other prosecutors do far more than try cases in court. They are attorneys for the people - serving victims, protecting communities, and standing up for justice.

The People's Lawyer

District Attorneys represent the government in criminal cases, but more importantly, they represent YOU, the members of their communities. Their job is not simply to win cases, but to seek justice with fairness, integrity, and compassion. Whether they’re called District Attorneys, State’s Attorneys, or County Prosecutors, their mission remains the same: pursue truth, uphold the law, and protect the rights of all involved.

From Crime to Courtroom

When a crime is reported, prosecutors don’t just show up in court. They are involved early - working alongside law enforcement to review evidence, determine charges, and ensure the investigation is conducted lawfully. Their decisions carry immense responsibility: choosing whether to charge someone with a crime, what charges to pursue, and how to resolve each case in a way that serves justice.

Advocates for Victims and Communities

Prosecutors are often the primary point of contact for victims and their families. They listen, explain the legal process, and ensure victims’ voices are heard. They also work with victims to advocate for safety and healing, whether that’s in the courtroom or through access to support services.

At the same time, prosecutors consider the broader impact of crime on neighborhoods, public safety, and community trust. Every decision they make, from whether to offer diversion to how to sentence someone, can shape lives and the future of their community.

Beyond the Courtroom

Today’s prosecutors are not just legal experts; they are policy advisors, problem solvers, and community leaders. They help craft smart laws by sharing front-line insight with lawmakers. They advocate for reforms that improve outcomes for victims, reduce recidivism, and enhance public safety. They also lead initiatives to address issues like domestic violence, human trafficking, elder abuse, and child exploitation.

Holding the Line on Justice

Prosecutors are often the last safeguard between injustice and accountability. They are bound by ethical obligations to protect the innocent, hold the guilty accountable, and maintain public confidence in the legal system. They must weigh each case with care, balancing the facts, the law, and the lives at stake.

At NDAA, we proudly support prosecutors in every state and territory. We understand the pressures they face, the integrity they bring, and the difference they make, every single day. As the national voice of America’s prosecutors, we are here to champion their work, strengthen their impact, and ensure that justice is never just a word, but a promise kept.