Claim: Kamala Harris is an attorney.

In the United States , a District Attorney -LRB- DA -RRB- represents the state government in the prosecution of criminal offenses , and is the chief law enforcement officer and legal officer of that state 's jurisdiction .   The prosecution is the legal party responsible for presenting the case against an individual who is suspected of breaking the law , initiating and directing further criminal investigations , guiding and recommending the sentencing of offenders , and are the only attorneys allowed to participate in grand jury proceedings .   The district attorney supervises a staff of prosecutors , Assistant District Attorneys -LRB- ADAs -RRB- , who represent the State and prosecute criminals on behalf of the District Attorney . Depending upon the system in place , DAs may be appointed by the chief executive of the jurisdiction or elected by the voters of the jurisdiction .