what is the definition of the district attorney and justice of the peace?

Question

or they for the defendent or for the plaintiff!

Answer 1

A district attorney is a lawyer for the government, usually at the county or city level. The office usually serves as prosecutor for criminal cases within that jurisdiction. Since in all criminal cases, the complaint is brought by the govt, this would put them in the same relative position as the plaintiff (a term used in civil matters).

The term 'justice of the peace' can refer to two offices. One is a minor court judge, capable of hearing small civil matters and violations of local ordinances. (See previous answer). Sometimes they are elected, sometimes appointed. It depends on the local rules. Some states also refer to these as magistrates, rather than JotP.

Some states/countries use the term 'justice of the peace' differently, to mean someone who has specific legal authority to perform certain acts, such as marriages or witnessing of oaths. This is often a position held by retired judges, but can be gained as a separate license, like being a notary.

Answer 2

A district attorney is a lawyer (for the prosecution, which means for the plaintiff) and a justice of the peace is not a lawyer at all!

Answer 3

A District Attorney is the elected (political) official in charge of the prosecutor's office. Prosecutor's act in behalf of the state/city/country. Public defender's act on behalf of the defendant.

Justice of the Peace is an elected (political) position where they oversee a lower level court. They are the prime judge in their jurisdiction. Generally (varies by state) J.P.'s preside over misdemeanor cases, not felonies. Some examples of J.P. court proceedings are traffic, evictions, small claims.

Hope this helps.