prosecuter

The term prosecutor is the standard spelling in most English-speaking jurisdictions. Prosecuter is a common misspelling and should be avoided in formal writing. A prosecutor is a lawyer who represents the government in prosecuting criminal offenses. They may be employed by federal, state, provincial, or local authorities and are sometimes referred to as district attorney, state's attorney, crown prosecutor, attorney general’s office, or federal prosecutor, depending on the jurisdiction.

Prosecutors are responsible for evaluating evidence, deciding whether to bring charges, and choosing the appropriate charges in criminal cases. They supervise or work with police and other investigators during the gathering of evidence, and they prepare and present cases in court. In trial, prosecutors question witnesses, file legal motions, negotiate plea agreements, and recommend sentences within legal limits. They may also handle appeals, post-conviction matters, and, in some jurisdictions, civil or regulatory enforcement actions.

Jurisdictional variations influence how prosecutors are selected and organized. In many places in the United States, prosecutors are elected or appointed to lead local, state, or federal offices. In the United Kingdom, Crown prosecutors work for the Crown Prosecution Service or other public bodies. In Canada and Australia, Crown prosecutors or Crown attorneys perform similar roles. In some jurisdictions, the office is independent from the judiciary; in others, it operates as a part of the executive branch.

Qualifications typically include legal education, admission to the bar, and extensive courtroom experience. Prosecutors are expected to uphold ethical standards, ensure due process, and avoid conflicts of interest. Their discretion over charging decisions and prosecutorial priorities can significantly affect outcomes for defendants and public safety.