ABOUT THE CONFERENCE

The North Carolina Conference of District Attorneys was established as a state agency in 1983 under General Statute §7A-411, “to assist in improving the administration of justice in North Carolina by coordinating the prosecution efforts of the various district attorneys, by assisting them in the administration of their offices…”

The agency consists of, and is governed by Elected District Attorneys and has a staff in Raleigh to carry out their goals and objectives. Primary responsibilities of the Conference include, but are not limited to the following:

Prosecution Support

The Conference of District Attorneys provides support to the 42 Elected District Attorneys and their staff (including 594 prosecutors and 480 support staff) through training, publications and materials. The Conference offers technical assistance and research on legal issues including, but not limited to, domestic violence, sexual assault, DWI, child abuse and homicides, financial crimes and victims’ rights. This assistance also includes the development of desktop reference manuals, and other materials.

Executive Development

A critical function of the Conference is to provide a forum for Elected District Attorneys to promote efficient, productive and ethical prosecutorial offices. This function is accomplished through strategic planning, conferences, executive committee meetings, newsletters and management workshops for District Attorneys. An orientation program is provided for newly elected and appointed District Attorneys.

Research

Another important function of the Conference of District Attorneys is to identify, assess and research emerging issues, programmatic effects and resource impact on prosecution.

Public Outreach

The Conference provides outreach and public education to a variety of audiences. It develops and continues to publish and distribute a variety of informational and educational materials for victims of crime. The Conference also develops public education programs for use by District Attorneys in educating the general public on issues surrounding impaired driving, domestic violence, victims’ rights and other issues.