District Attorney of Philadelphia facts for kids

The District Attorney of Philadelphia is a very important office in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It's the biggest prosecutor's office in Pennsylvania and one of the largest in the whole country! This office helps more than 1.5 million people who live in Philadelphia. The District Attorney works for the people of Pennsylvania and Philadelphia in legal cases.

The person who holds the job of District Attorney is chosen by voters in an election. Their term, or time in office, starts on the first Monday in January after they are elected.

What Does a District Attorney Do?

The District Attorney's office represents the government in legal matters. They work to make sure laws are followed and that justice is served for everyone in the city. This job is about protecting the community and upholding the law.

How Did the Office Start?

Before 1850, a different official handled the duties of the District Attorney. But then, a new law was passed on May 3, 1850. This law allowed people in each county of Pennsylvania to vote for their own District Attorney. This person needed to have a legal background.

At first, the District Attorney served for three years. Later, in 1874, the Pennsylvania Constitution changed this. It made the term four years long, giving the elected official more time to work for the community.