Which official typically prosecutes criminal cases on behalf of the county?

• A. Clerk
• B. Sheriff
• C. States' Attorney
• D. Public Defender

Answer: (C)

The main idea is who handles the charging and bringing of criminal cases for the government. The official who prosecutes crimes on behalf of the county is the State's Attorney (often called District Attorney or Commonwealth's Attorney in some states). This prosecutor reviews investigations, decides which charges to file, presents the case in court, and represents the government throughout criminal proceedings. That’s the core function of prosecuting attorneys at the county level.

Clerks manage court records and filings, not prosecutions. The sheriff is a law enforcement officer who enforces laws and runs jails, and may assist with investigations, but does not prosecute. Public defenders provide defense for those who cannot afford counsel, not prosecutors.