Who We Are
The Conference was established by the General Assembly “…to assist in improving the administration of justice in North Carolina by coordinating the prosecution efforts of the various district attorneys.” The primary objective of the Conference is to provide crucial support to prosecutors in the discharge of their duties. To accomplish this, the Conference extends a range of valuable resources and guidance, including Professional Development, Publications, and Research Assistance. These resources enable prosecutors to uphold justice for North Carolina’s citizens in an effective and efficient manner.
Victim Rights
If you have experienced any sort of crime, the legal system may seem overwhelming due to its complex processes, legal jargon, and professionals. But, you have rights as a victim that must be respected. To gain knowledge about your rights and access vital information, please explore the Victims Tab and other resources available to you. You can rest assured that you have the ability to take action and make sure your rights are upheld.
Upcoming Trainings
2025 NCDDA Summer Association Meeting
- June 16, 2025 – June 18, 2025
- Wilmington, NC
The NC District Attorneys Association (NCDAA) meeting is a statewide training program devoted exclusively to prosecutors, and it is approved by the NC State Bar to provide 12 hours of continuing legal education credit, typically including 2 hours of Ethics and 1 hour each of Technology and Professional Wellbeing. NCDAA calls upon the collective skills of the State’s most experienced criminal law experts, guest speakers, top prosecutors, and others with the required depth of knowledge to provide a comprehensive continuing legal education program.
Navigating the Maze of Mental Illness July 2025
No matter what type of case they handle, prosecutors are likely to encounter defendants who have mental health issues. Whether District Court or Superior Court, incapable to proceed or insane, the intersection of the criminal court system and the mental health system is both incredibly important and extremely confusing. This one-day course will help prosecutors navigate the labyrinth of managing defendants who may be dealing with mental health issues.
Domestic Violence Regional Training: Presenting the Best Case July 2025
This two-day training for prosecutors, law enforcement, and DA administrative professionals will cover basic and advanced issues regarding investigating and prosecuting domestic violence cases. Topics will include investigation best practices, trial advocacy topics, working with special victims, and a statutory and case law update.
Want to learn more?
View All TrainingsErnie Lee
Duplin, Jones, Onslow, and Sampson Counties
Ernie Lee is the District Attorney for Prosecutorial District 5, which includes Duplin, Jones, Onslow, and Sampson Counties in North Carolina. He attended Atlantic Christian College, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Political Science. He earned his Juris Doctorate from Campbell University in 1985. He began serving as an Assistant District Attorney in 1987 in District 5 and was elected as District Attorney in 2010.
District Attorney Ernie Lee served as a Major Judge Advocate in the United States Army Reserve from 1992 to 2014. In 2024, he was awarded the Dogwood Award due to his efforts in combating the opioid epidemic in North Carolina by shaping state policy and holding offenders accountable.
District Attorney Ernie Lee served as President of the North Carolina Conference of District Attorneys in 2023 and served on the Executive Committee from 2022 to 2024. During this time, District Attorney Ernie Lee has consistently advocated for increased resources for the District Attorneys Offices and has exerted significant effort in the recruitment of new prosecutors.
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The North Carolina Conference of District Attorneys offers a wealth of valuable information and assistance to prosecutors and their law enforcement partners. If you are unable to locate the answers you require, please do not hesitate to reach out to our team members. We are dedicated to providing guidance and direction to ensure that the needs of prosecutors are met with the utmost professionalism and respect.