prokuratura

The prokuratura, or prosecutor's office, is a government institution in many countries of Central and Eastern Europe, the Caucasus and parts of the former Soviet Union. It acts as the state’s prosecution service, responsible for supervising legality and defending public interests.

Its core functions include supervising compliance with laws by government bodies, local authorities and officials; directing, overseeing or participating in criminal investigations; prosecuting criminal cases in courts or guiding the process; representing the state and public interests in civil and administrative proceedings; supervising the execution of court decisions and punishments; and protecting the rights of citizens and organizations in legal processes.

Organization and independence vary by country. The prokuratura typically has a hierarchical structure with a central national office, regional or provincial prosecutor's offices, and district offices. Prosecutors are usually career officials appointed by state authorities. The degree of political influence differs; some systems grant substantial prosecutorial autonomy, while others place the office under ministerial supervision or within the justice ministry. Reforms in many places seek to strengthen independence and accountability.

In practice, the term prokuratura may refer to the institution as a whole, its regional or local offices, or to individual prosecutors. The exact powers and procedures differ by jurisdiction, including how investigations are initiated, how decisions to prosecute are made, and the relationship with police and courts.