prosecuting attorney

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.

prosecuting attorney

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of prosecuting attorney¹

First recorded in 1825–35

Example Sentences

The St. Louis County prosecuting attorney sought to reduce his sentence to life without parole but was ultimately unsuccessful.

From Salon

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

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

From BBC

“Imposing rigid requirements on peace officers, prosecuting attorneys, and investigators could ultimately impede the pursuit of justice and compromise the effectiveness of law enforcement efforts,” the group wrote in a legislative analysis.

From Los Angeles Times

After a historic ascent to the vice presidency and humbling descent into disdain, Harris seems to have found her footing in a familiar role: prosecuting attorney.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• government
• prosecutor