A career as a district attorney (DA) is an excellent option for those who care about truth and justice and would like to work in public service. There are a lot of things you need to do to enter into this profession and succeed. Here is what we recommend.
Earn a Bachelor’s Degree (4 years)
- Majors: criminal justice, legal studies, political science, philosophy, economics (any rigorous major works).
- Build a record: writing-heavy courses, logic, statistics; internships (DA’s office, public defender, court), mock trial/debate.
Take the LSAT & Get Into Law School (3–6 months prep)
- Target schools with strong criminal law, trial-advocacy, and clinics.
- Aim for the best total package: scholarships, placement in prosecutor offices, robust externship network.
Complete a Juris Doctor (J.D.) Degree (3 years)
- Load up on Criminal Law, Criminal Procedure, Evidence, Trial Advocacy.
- Join prosecutor clinics and moot court; extern/intern with local, state, or federal prosecutors.
- Summer: DA/AG/US Attorney internships; 3L: student-practice (where allowed) to get real courtroom reps.
Pass the Bar Exam in Your State (2–4 months study)
- Clear Character & Fitness; keep your ethics/disciplinary record clean.
- Consider MPRE timing early; line up references from clinics/supervisors.
Gain Courtroom Experience (1–5+ years)
- Common paths: Assistant District Attorney (ADA), city/county prosecutor, clerkships (trial/appellate), or public defender (build trial chops).
- Stack experience: arraignments, motions, hearings, jury trials, plea negotiations, victim-services collaboration.
Become a DA: Run for Office or Be Appointed
- Most DAs are elected (countywide); some jurisdictions fill vacancies by appointment until the next election.
- Build a public-service résumé, community ties, and a platform (public safety, diversion programs, fairness, data-driven reform).
- Campaign nuts-and-bolts: fundraising, endorsements, field ops, compliance, and media.
Understand Your Role
In order to succeed in your career you must know what is expected of you at all times. As a DA, you will be required to prosecute criminals with the aim of rectifying their wrongdoings and making them better members of the public. You will be required to exercise your duties without fear or favor and work to promote truth and justice. Other duties will include analyzing and gathering evidence to identify facts surrounding a particular case and controlling proceedings at the court.
Related:
- Most Affordable Online Associate’s in Paralegal Studies Degree Programs
- 5 Career Settings in Criminal Law for Paralegals
- 5 Steps to Becoming a Criminal Prosecutor
Go for Internship
You need to seek an internship in a reputable institution to help you get practical experience. There are many places you can join, and each can help you acquire new skills and build your confidence in prosecution. Some places you can join include judicial clerkships, law review institutions, government law offices and private law firms.
Put More Emphasis on Trial Experience
As a law professional who is looking to become a DA, you need to build a strong trial experience. You need to learn how the courtroom works and how to advocate for your clients in a clear and persuasive manner.
District attorneys are highly respected individuals in the society due to the nature of their job. In order to become a district attorney, you must earn a law degree, become a member of the American Bar Association, obtain a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree and gain some trial experience.
Career Outcomes for District Attorneys and Related Legal Roles
| Role | Median Salary (BLS, 2024) | Job Growth (2024–2034) | Typical Path |
|---|---|---|---|
| District Attorney (Prosecutor) | $150,800/year | +8% (faster than average) | JD degree, pass Bar Exam, work as prosecutor or assistant DA, then elected/appointed |
| Lawyer (General) | $150,800/year | +8% | JD degree, Bar Exam, private or public practice across legal fields |
| Public Defender | $90,000–$120,000 (varies by state) | +8% | JD degree, Bar Exam, appointed to represent clients who cannot afford counsel |
| Legal Assistant / Paralegal | $59,200/year | +4% | Associate degree or certificate in paralegal studies, ABA-approved preferred |
Comparison Table for Related Careers
| Role | Education Required | Average Salary | Primary Duties | Work Setting |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District Attorney | JD + Bar Exam | $150,800 | Prosecutes criminal cases | Public/government |
| Defense Attorney | JD + Bar Exam | $135,000 | Defends accused individuals | Private practice |
| Paralegal | Associate/Certificate | $59,200 | Legal research, drafting | Law firms |
State-Specific Nuances (Examples)
California (District Attorney)
- Eligibility: Licensed California attorney in good standing; typically must be a registered voter/resident of the county at the time of taking office.
- Selection & Term: Elected, 4-year term, nonpartisan countywide ballot; Board of Supervisors may appoint an interim DA to fill vacancies.
- Practice Tip: California DA offices value student-practice clinic experience, Spanish/second-language skills, and familiarity with victim rights and diversion statutes.
New York (District Attorney)
- Eligibility: Admitted to the New York State Bar; residency requirements vary by county.
- Selection & Term: Elected, generally 4-year terms; vacancies may be filled by the Governor or as provided by local law.
Texas (District/Criminal District Attorney)
- Eligibility: Licensed Texas attorney; residency in the district/county required.
- Selection & Term: Partisan elections, 4-year terms; some counties have Criminal District Attorneys (DA + county attorney functions).
Florida (“State Attorney,” not DA)
- Eligibility: Member of the Florida Bar; residency within the judicial circuit.
- Selection & Term: Elected by circuit, 4-year terms.
Illinois (“State’s Attorney”)
- Eligibility: Licensed Illinois attorney; county residency typically required.
- Selection & Term: Elected, 4-year terms (all counties).
Always check your state statutes and county election office for current eligibility, residency, and filing rules (they can change).
Suggested Timeline (Typical)
- Years 0–4: Bachelor’s + internships/volunteering in courts/DA offices
- Year 4: LSAT → law school admission
- Years 5–7: J.D. + clinics/externships + summer prosecutor roles
- Year 7: Bar exam + MPRE + Character & Fitness
- Years 7–10+: ADA/prosecutor roles → build trial record
- When ready: Run for DA or seek appointment to vacancy
FAQ
What degree do I need to be a DA?
You must earn a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school, after completing a bachelor’s degree in any field.
How long does it take to become a DA?
On average, it takes 7–9 years: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, 3 years for law school, plus bar passage and early career legal experience.
Do DAs get elected or appointed?
In most U.S. states, district attorneys are elected officials, though in some jurisdictions they may be appointed by a governor or local authority.
What’s the difference between a DA and prosecutor?
A district attorney (DA) is the chief prosecutor for a county or district, while a prosecutor (often called an assistant DA) works under the DA to handle individual cases.
Is being a DA stressful?
Yes, DAs face high caseloads, public scrutiny, and the pressure of criminal trials, making it a demanding and stressful career, but also rewarding for those committed to justice.
