A district attorney (DA) is a public official responsible for prosecuting criminal cases on behalf of the government in a specific geographic area, known as a district. The DA represents the state or the people in court, making decisions about whether to file charges, negotiate plea deals, and present cases during trials. District attorneys work closely with law enforcement agencies, victims, and witnesses to gather evidence and build cases. They play a crucial role in the criminal justice system, ensuring that laws are enforced and that justice is served in their communities.