What role does a prosecutor have in a criminal court case?

A prosecutor is a government official responsible for bringing defendants to justice in the name of the state. Their role is comprehensive, often spanning from the initial police investigation through the trial and any subsequent appeals.1

Core Responsibilities

• Case Management: Prosecutors oversee the development of a case, which may include directing investigations, presenting evidence to a grand jury, and questioning witnesses during trial.1
• Legal Representation: They represent the state’s interests in court, presenting briefs and arguments during proceedings and appeals.1
• Ethical Obligations: A prosecutor’s duty is not merely to secure a conviction but to ensure justice is served. This includes a fundamental ethical and legal obligation to disclose any information to the defense that could exonerate the defendant or mitigate their punishment.2
• Integrity: Prosecutors must avoid trial tactics that could lead to unfair convictions and should not pursue cases solely for political gain.2

The specific structure of the prosecutor's office varies significantly by jurisdiction, ranging from career civil servants in countries like France to elected officials in many U.S. state jurisdictions.1