District Attorneys represent the Commonwealth in most criminal proceedings, including those brought before the grand jury. There are eleven District Attorneys elected to four-year terms to represent the State's regional districts: Suffolk, Northern, Eastern, Middle, Western, Northwestern, Norfolk, Plymouth, Bristol, Cape and Islands, and Berkshire.

District Attorneys participate in bail hearings; commitment proceedings related to criminal matters; presentation of evidence in all inquests; and necessary proceedings for rendition actions. They also are responsible for all necessary appeals to the Appeals Court and Supreme Judicial Court, together with any necessary post-trial representations. The District Attorneys also provide assistance to other law enforcement agencies investigating criminal activities, including homicide. Additional activities requiring the direct involvement of the District Attorneys include: child abuse investigations; juvenile justice programs; career criminal identification; educational programs for the public, police, and social service agencies; victim-witness assistance services; and domestic violence prevention.

Objectives

In Fiscal Year 1999, the District Attorneys will implement a statewide case management and tracking system and will work with local school districts on anti-truancy initiatives.

Budget Recommendations

The Fiscal Year 1999 recommendation includes an increase in funding of $5.2 million to support Fiscal Year 1999 objectives.