What is the difference between a prosecution and a defense attorney?

Prosecution and defense attorneys have different roles when it comes to criminal proceedings in Massachusetts. A prosecution attorney, also known as a district attorney, is the legal representative of the state and their job is to prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the accused has committed the crime that they are charged with. The prosecution attorney is tasked with providing evidence, examining witnesses, making arguments to the court, and ensuring justice is served. A defense attorney, on the other hand, is the legal representative of the accused and their job is to protect the rights of the accused. The defense attorney works to discredit the evidence presented by the prosecution and to challenge any arguments made by the prosecution. The defense attorney will also present evidence, examine witnesses, and make arguments to the court in defense of the accused. It is the defense attorney’s job to prove that the accused is not guilty, or to argue the facts of the case and try to reduce the charges or the potential sentence. In sum, prosecution and defense attorneys have different roles in criminal proceedings in Massachusetts. The prosecution attorney is the representative of the state and works to prove the accused’s guilt, while the defense attorney is the representative of the accused and works to prove the accused’s innocence.

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