prosecuting attorney

American  

noun

(sometimes initial capital letters)

1. the public officer in a county, district, or other jurisdiction charged with carrying on the prosecution in criminal proceedings.

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prosecuting attorney British  

noun

1. law (in some states) an officer in a judicial district appointed to conduct criminal prosecutions on behalf of the state and people

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Etymology

Origin of prosecuting attorney

First recorded in 1825–35

Example Sentences

“Years prior to this accident, Elon was in the public eye saying that this technology is safer than a human driver,” prosecuting attorney Doug Eaton said in an interview.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 19, 2025

But a prosecuting attorney would never advise a client to waive their right to a trial, even if arbitration is their preference.

From Slate • Oct. 7, 2024

Since January, St. Louis prosecuting attorney Wesley Bell had sought to block Williams’ execution, stating that prosecutors had earlier made “constitutional errors” that contributed to Williams’ murder conviction.

From Salon • Sep. 25, 2024

Also concerned about the DNA, the local prosecuting attorney, Wesley Bell, requested a hearing.

From BBC • Sep. 24, 2024

In some jurisdictions, if the person lacks the support of the prosecuting attorney who wrongly convicted him, compensation will be denied.

From "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson

Related Words

• government
• prosecutor