Louisiana District Attorneys

The district attorney (D.A.) is the primary figure for prosecuting offenses in the Louisiana criminal justice system. D.A.s typically decide whether criminal charges should be filed. Law enforcement will make an arrest, but the district attorney determines whether or not to prosecute. The decision to prosecute will be made after the D.A. investigates. This often includes a preliminary hearing or presenting evidence to the grand jury.

If the D.A. decides to move forward with the charges, the D.A. will represent the State of Louisiana in bringing the matter to trial. However, things don't always end up with a court date.

The district attorney can agree to a plea bargain, reduce charges, dismiss the case, or offer alternative diversion programs to let you resolve your case without a conviction. Diversion programs could be the difference between a mark on your criminal record or an opportunity for expungement. D.A. offices also offer victim assistance programs.

Most D.A.s supervise a staff, including assistant district attorneys, investigators, and paralegals.

Speaking With the District Attorney

While you may think contacting the district attorney can help your criminal case, it is rarely advisable. The D.A. represents the state. Their role is to secure convictions, not help defendants. You may accidentally make a damaging admission. Any statements you make could be used against you.

Contacting the D.A.'s office is not just inadvisable—it may be futile. Many D.A.s won't speak to defendants with an attorney, citing ethics concerns.

So, in many instances, it's best to hire a criminal lawyer to represent you. Having an attorney talk to the prosecutor can be quite valuable to your case. A skilled criminal defense attorney knows which details present your case in the best light. They know the right questions to ask and which facts to share to get charges reduced or even dismissed. An attorney also won't make incriminating statements to the prosecutor. Hiring a criminal defense lawyer ensures the right legal information is shared.

A public defender is available for those who can't afford to hire a private attorney. Louisiana public defenders are paid by the state to handle the criminal cases of defendants with low incomes. You can request a state public defender at your arraignment or fill out an application at your local public defender office.

Louisiana also has federal public defenders. They represent those charged with crimes under federal law.

If your issue is civil and not criminal, you can contact one of the legal aid organizations for help. For example, Southeast Louisiana Legal Services provides legal representation in several Louisiana parishes. There is no charge if you meet the income guidelines.

They provide legal help for matters including:

• Domestic violence
• Abused and neglected children
• Housing
• Medical care
• Employment

Louisiana Attorney General's Office

Unlike district attorneys who prosecute crimes on the county level, the Attorney General (A.G.) has jurisdiction over serious statewide criminal cases like public corruption, securities fraud, and drug offenses. The Attorney General is the top legal officer for the state of Louisiana. The A.G.'s responsibilities generally include upholding state law and protecting public interest.

The Attorney General also provides legal opinions and counsel to the state government, including the governor, legislature, and state agencies.

Louisiana District Attorney Offices

Louisiana has 40 judicial districts. A district attorney is elected for each one. These districts can include more than one parish, as shown below in the list of district attorneys and the parishes they represent.

Note: Although we strive to provide the most current contact and website information available for the D.A. offices in this state, this information is subject to change. If you have found contact or website information that is not current, please contact us.

Facing Criminal Charges Brought by Your D.A.? A Local Attorney Can Help

Are you facing charges in the state of Louisiana? Do you have questions about criminal law? If so, you should seek legal advice to better understand your rights under Louisiana law and your available protections. Get legal help by contacting an experienced criminal defense attorney near you.