What is the primary role of a prosecutor in a criminal case?

The primary role of a prosecutor in a criminal case is to present the case against the accused in court. This responsibility encompasses a range of tasks, including gathering evidence, calling witnesses to testify, and making legal arguments to demonstrate that the defendant committed the crime as charged. The prosecutor acts on behalf of the state or government, aiming to uphold the law and seek justice, rather than simply to win a conviction.

While other roles, such as ensuring a fair trial, are also important within the criminal justice system, they do not encapsulate the core function of a prosecutor. The prosecutor’s primary obligation is to advocate for the state’s interest in prosecuting criminal offenses, which entails presenting a compelling case to establish guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. This role is distinct from that of a defense attorney, whose duty is to represent the accused and advocate for their rights. Mediation between the defense and the court is typically the purview of a judge rather than a prosecutor, further clarifying the prosecutor's focus on presenting the government’s case in court.