A lawyer who represents the state in local criminal cases is usually referred to as the "District Attorney," although, depending on your state, these attorneys can go by other titles such as "Prosecuting Attorney" or "County Attorney." The Attorney General of a state typically represents the state in civil cases, but in some states the Attorney General prosecutes all criminal cases. District Attorneys play a major role in investigating and prosecuting cases which is why it's important to learn more about the District Attorneys in your state.
