Which of the following is a key function of a district attorney?

The function of making charging decisions in criminal cases is central to the role of a district attorney. This involves evaluating the evidence presented by law enforcement and determining whether there is sufficient basis to file criminal charges against a suspect. A district attorney has the authority to decide which cases to prosecute and what specific charges will be brought, which can significantly impact the direction of a case and the justice process as a whole.

This responsibility requires a deep understanding of the law, as well as consideration of the potential consequences for both the victim and the accused. The district attorney must balance the interests of justice with the need for appropriate accountability, which makes this function crucial in the criminal justice system.

Other functions mentioned, like conducting jury selection, may pertain more directly to the role of a prosecutor during a trial rather than from the broader managerial perspective of a district attorney. Similarly, providing defense strategies is not a function of a district attorney, as their focus is on the prosecution rather than the defense of individuals. While overseeing community outreach programs can also be part of a district attorney’s responsibilities, it is not as fundamental to their primary role of prosecuting crimes as deciding to charge offenders is.