When you see criminal trials covered by the media, they often interview the prosecutors and Public Defenders. It may look like they’re out there “fighting alone.” Not true. There are unknown people. Who helps prosecutors and Public Defenders?
- Both side use investigators. Criminal cases are initially investigated by the police. Prosecutors often need more information before charging a suspect. Or after the case is heading for trial, new evidence may pop-up that needs more investigation. Things like subpoenas need to be served to get witnesses into the trial. On the defense side, investigators are used to interview prosecution witnesses and look at crime scenes. For instance, if the defendant has an alibi (“I wasn’t there to commit the crime.”) an investigator will interview witnesses to support the alibi. Or he may gather documents that show the defendant was not at the crime scene.
- Law clerks. Both sides need law clerks to do legal research before and during the trial. Often, the clerks will sit with the lawyer in trial to help with legal issues that may come up about the admissibility of evidence that the judge needs to rule on, procedural questions, or constitutional issues.
- Victim/Witness advocates. Prosecutors have people trained in psychology, social work, etc. to help victims and witnesses prepare for trial. A typical example is a child sexual assault victim. The Victim/Witness advocate will counsel with the child and offer other resources if necessary. They would also take the child to the courtroom (prior to trial) to acquaint them with it and practice their testimony so the child is more relaxed when she must testify.
- Dispositional Advisors. Public Defenders across the country use these people who are also trained like social worker and probation officers. They assist the defense lawyer in helping get the client into rehab programs either prior to a trial or during the probationary stage of the case. Since they work for the defense, they will do everything they can to help the client get the best deal. So often, the client is clearly guilty and the biggest part of the case will actually be the punishment/probation aspect instead.
People don’t realize how much these unknown people help prosecutors and Public Defenders. Those of us who have worked on both sides know this and are grateful for their help!
