Washington District Attorneys
By Eric Harvey, J.D. | Legally reviewed by Melissa Bender, Esq. | Last reviewed November 28, 2023
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Charges aren't levied against suspects automatically after an arrest. Rather, criminal charges are filed by the district attorney (D.A.). They are filed in the county or multi-county district where the crime allegedly occurred. In Washington state, the D.A. is called the "prosecuting attorney." One represents each county. The prosecutor's job is to convict defendants. Speaking with them on your own accord is often unwise.
You don't want to reveal your defense strategies before the trial begins. While you may be offered a plea bargain, discussing any such offers with your attorney is always a good idea. Do this before reaching a decision. The following information and directory will help you better understand the prosecutor's role.
Washington Attorney General's Office
Washington "prosecuting attorneys" represent their county in state legal matters. They do so mainly with criminal prosecutions. The Washington Attorney General's Office represents the state in litigation matters.
Both prosecuting attorneys and attorneys general assist law enforcement. They carry out the administration of the criminal justice system in the state of Washington. These elected officials are meant to serve the interests of the public. As the senior-most prosecutor in their respective districts, prosecuting attorneys handle the administration of criminal laws wherever they are elected. They will make appearances in district courts to prosecute defendants. They carry out prosecution in criminal cases.
Any prosecuting attorney's office also handles expungement. Expungement is the removal of a person's criminal history from public records.
Prosecuting attorneys handle the prosecution of all criminal offenses. Examples of these are:
- Criminal child support arrears
- Unlawful and criminal evictions
- Domestic violence
It's important to get an attorney if you're facing charges. You still have options, even if you can't afford an attorney. You can contact the office of the public defender. Attorneys at the office of the public defender provide free legal representation to defendants with low income. You can also contact the Northwest Justice Project (NJP). Volunteer attorneys at NJP provide legal counsel on a pro bono basis. This means that they provide legal aid for free. If you need referrals for attorneys, you can contact the Washington State Bar Association, as well. They can provide free referrals for attorneys.
Directory of Washington State Prosecuting Attorneys
Each of Washington's 39 counties is its own judicial district, and each has a prosecuting attorney in charge of their respective district. Learn about Washington's prosecuting attorneys by visiting the following links:
Note: We strive to provide the most current contact and website information available for the D.A. offices in this state. But this information is subject to change. If you have found contact or website information that is not current, please contact us.
Reach Out to a Lawyer Before Calling the Prosecuting Attorney
Criminal charges can have devastating consequences. They can be especially devastating if you're convicted and sent to prison. They're even difficult when you face steep fines and have a lengthy probation. You might even lose your professional license. Getting ahead of the curve can help soften the blow. Your best course of action for defending against criminal charges is to work with an experienced Washington criminal defense attorney near you. Legal advice and legal services are indispensable resources. It's important to get the legal help you need and use all the legal resources at your disposal.
Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?
- Complex criminal defense situations usually require a lawyer
- Defense attorneys can help protect your rights
- A lawyer can seek to reduce or eliminate criminal penalties
Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many attorneys offer free consultations.
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