A United States Attorney, often abbreviated as U.S. Attorney, is a position within the Department of Justice of the United States federal government. This role is responsible for representing the interests of the United States in legal matters, particularly in federal criminal cases and civil lawsuits.
The United States Attorney is appointed by the President of the United States and is the chief federal law enforcement officer for their designated jurisdiction, which usually consists of a federal judicial district. There are 94 such districts across the country, each encompassing several counties or areas. The U.S. Attorney's Office within each district is responsible for prosecuting federal crimes, seeking justice for victims, and upholding the rule of law.
Specifically, the United States Attorney investigates and prosecutes violations of federal laws, such as drug trafficking, terrorism, organized crime, public corruption, and white-collar crimes. They collaborate with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to build strong cases and bring alleged offenders to trial. Additionally, U.S. Attorneys defend the interests of the United States government in civil cases, representing federal agencies in areas such as taxation, bankruptcy, healthcare, and environmental law.
In summary, a United States Attorney serves as the chief federal prosecutor within their jurisdiction, upholding federal laws, protecting citizens, and maintaining justice in both criminal and civil matters on behalf of the United States government.
