{"id":375868,"date":"2023-11-25T16:23:22","date_gmt":"2023-11-25T21:23:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/state\/oregon-law\/oregon-district-attorneys.html"},"modified":"2023-11-25T16:23:22","modified_gmt":"2023-11-25T21:23:22","slug":"oregon-district-attorneys","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/state\/oregon-law\/oregon-district-attorneys.html","title":{"rendered":"Oregon District Attorneys"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Oregon District Attorneys<\/h1>\n
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\n By Eric Harvey, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Melissa Bender, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n

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Oregon’s judicial districts are divided along county lines. When the D.A. decides the state has a strong enough case, they’ll file charges against the defendant. In some cases, the matter may be referred to a grand jury. <\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n\n

A district attorney (D.A.) is the prosecuting officer of a criminal case<\/a>. Typically, they represent one or more counties comprising their judicial district. The grand jury will decide whether to indict<\/a> the defendant.<\/p>\r\n

It’s a good idea to learn the D.A.’s role. It’s also important to know how to get in touch with their office if needed. Regardless, you’ll want to work with a criminal defense attorney. After all, you may have the opportunity to negotiate a plea bargain<\/a>. But communicating with the D.A.’s office is not without its risks. They may try to figure out your defense strategy or get you to reveal more than you should.<\/p>\r\n

Continue reading to learn more about the criminal justice system in Oregon. In this article, you’ll learn about the role of Oregon’s Attorney General, the state’s D.A.s, and how to contact them. Whether you’re a crime victim or a defendant, it’s good to know about how criminal matters are handled in Oregon. As a disclaimer, this material does not suffice to replace an attorney’s expertise. Contact a licensed lawyer if you need more help.<\/p>\r\n

Oregon Attorney General’s Office<\/h2>\r\n

The Oregon Attorney General<\/a> ("A.G.") heads the state’s Department of Justice. The A.G. is the highest-ranking prosecutor and law enforcement officer in the state. They assist law enforcement agencies throughout the state. While the D.A.s prosecute state crimes within their respective districts, the A.G. represents Oregon in matters of litigation.<\/p>\r\n

The A.G. also enforces a wide variety of laws meant to protect state residents. In the state of Oregon, the Attorney General and district attorneys all handle the administration of the law enforcement apparatus in the state. The deputy district attorneys are underneath the district attorneys. They provide support to the district attorneys in a variety of ways.<\/p>\r\n

Attorneys general and district attorneys handle many matters, including all infractions<\/a> under the state’s criminal laws. Examples include:<\/p>\r\n