Duties

Effective enforcement of the law requires the sure-handed expertise of a knowledgeable prosecutor.

The main duties of the county and/or district attorney are to represent the state in criminal cases. The county and/or district attorney works with law enforcement officers in the investigation and preparation of cases to be heard before the criminal courts. When requested in writing, the county attorney provides legal counsel to county officers.

The overwhelming importance of the office of public prosecutors arises from the fact that upon the prosecuting attorney rests the power of determining whether prosecution in any given case shall be inaugurated or, if inaugurated, pushed to a successful conclusion.

Other duties include prosecution of juvenile offenders, representation of victims of violence in protective orders and representing the Texas Department of Protective & Regulatory services in removing children from abusive households.

Department Description:

Statutory duties of the District Attorney include investigation and prosecution of all capital and felony offenses in the 8th and 62nd Judicial District Court, presentation of cases to the Grand Jury, handling civil forfeiture cases. The District Attorney is elected to a four year term of office.

Department Objectives:

To provide the highest quality legal representation to the people of the 8th and 62nd Judicial Districts.