How Do I Become a District Attorney?

A district attorney is an elected or appointed public official responsible for overseeing all criminal prosecutions within a particular jurisdiction. In order to become a district attorney, you must first earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college. Next, successfully complete the Law School Admissions Test and enroll in law school. After graduating from law school, you must also pass the bar exam for your region. Afterwards, begin working as a prosecutor and seek appointment or election to become a district attorney.

District attorneys are government officials responsible for overseeing criminal prosecutions that take place in their jurisdiction. They typically manage a team of prosecutors known as assistant district attorneys. These assistants usually prosecute criminal cases under the direct supervision of the district attorney. In some instances, a district attorney may choose to personally try highly publicized cases. A district attorney is typically appointed or elected by popular vote at the local or regional level.

To become a district attorney, you must first earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college. Students typically major in political science or criminal justice as future preparation for law school. Although these particular majors are not required for admission to law school, they can be somewhat helpful. It is important to maintain a good grade point average during college to enhance your law school admission prospects.

After receiving your bachelor’s degree, you must take and pass the Law School Admissions Test. You will also need to be registered with the Law School Admission Council before sitting for this exam. Once you have successfully completed this examination, you can apply to and enroll in law school upon acceptance. This specialized training typically lasts for three years although longer, part-time programs are also offered. Upon completion of law school, graduates are typically awarded a Juris Doctor degree.

You should also seek to participate in some type of clerkship program during law school. An clerkship or internship typically consists of working part-time in a district attorney’s office. This will help you gain valuable, hands-on work experience and may also enhance your curriculum vitae. Before you can become a district attorney, you must also pass the bar exam for your region. It is best to obtain and study all available test-preparation materials before sitting for this exam.

A certain amount of criminal prosecution experience is also needed before you can become a district attorney. You should seek employment as an assistant district attorney to gain trial experience. Participating in important criminal prosecutions is likely to improve your chances of future appointment or election. You should also join a political organization and build a network of supporters if you plan to seek an elected office. Then declare your eligibility or candidacy when an appointed or elected position becomes available.