What Is the Role of the District Attorney in Massachusetts Criminal Cases?

The District Attorney (DA) plays a central role in every Massachusetts criminal case. They decide whether to prosecute, what charges to file, and how to handle the case, from arraignment to trial.

Once a police department files a complaint or makes an arrest, the DA’s office steps in to review the evidence and decide whether to move forward. They can amend charges, drop a case entirely, or bring it before a grand jury in serious cases.

DAs also negotiate plea offers. They decide whether to offer diversion, probation, or jail time, and whether to object to things like bail or record sealing.

It’s important to understand that the DA isn’t just “the government.” They’re individual prosecutors with discretion. That means strategy matters. I work to present my client’s side early, file targeted motions, and leverage legal issues to shift how the case is charged and resolved.

Facing the DA’s office isn’t just about facts, it’s about how the law is used. Knowing how they operate is key to a strong defense.