What Does The DA Do?

What Does the DA Do?

The District Attorney (DA) is the top prosecutor in the parish, responsible for enforcing the law and seeking justice on behalf of the community. As a public official, the DA plays a critical role in the criminal justice system, working to keep our neighborhoods safe while ensuring fairness and accountability.

Key Responsibilities

1. Prosecute Criminal Cases
The DA leads the prosecution of criminal offenses, ranging from misdemeanors to serious felonies. This includes reviewing police reports, filing charges, presenting cases in court, and making sentencing recommendations.

2. Ensure Fairness and Justice
The DA must weigh the evidence, consider the rights of the accused, and make decisions in the interest of justice—not just convictions. That includes dismissing cases when appropriate and seeking alternatives to incarceration when they serve the public good.

3. Support Victims of Crime
The DA’s office works closely with crime victims, providing information, resources, and support throughout the legal process. The goal is to make sure victims are heard, protected, and treated with respect.

4. Collaborate with Law Enforcement
The DA partners with local police, sheriffs, and investigators to ensure cases are thoroughly prepared and prosecuted. This collaboration helps maintain the rule of law and public trust.

5. Promote Public Safety and Reform
Beyond the courtroom, the DA plays a leadership role in criminal justice reform, advocating for policies that reduce crime, prevent recidivism, and address root causes—like mental health, addiction, and poverty.

Why It Matters

The decisions a DA makes can affect thousands of lives. From charging decisions to plea bargains, the DA helps shape the justice system in our community. That’s why transparency, accountability, and a commitment to fairness are so important.