The Role of The District Attorney's Office The County District Attorney represents the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in nearly all criminal cases within the district and is responsible for prosecuting defendants accused of having committed criminal offenses. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts through the District Attorney has the burden to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant committed the crime charged. The prosecutor from the DA's office will present the victims interests and concerns to the court. An Assistant District Attorney (prosecutor) is assigned to a case once it enters the court system. It is not necessary for the victim to hire an attorney. Under the law, only a District Attorney and/or an Assistant District Attorney is allowed to prosecute a criminal case. The Assistant District Attorney and the Victim Witness Advocate will keep the victim informed of the progress of the case. Victim Witness Advocates from the District Attorney's office work on criminal cases. They serve victims of serious physical and sexual assaults, domestic violence, children, elderly and handicapped victims, and family and friends of murder victims. Victim Witness Advocates provide a consistent link between the victim and the District Attorneys office throughout each step of the court process. All efforts are made to give the victim the attention, assistance and reinforcement that she/he needs and deserves. |