Integrity is the cornerstone of a fair criminal justice system. Prosecutions should be based on facts and evidence, not personal ambitions or political motivations. Prosecutors should be honest and transparent with the public that they serve and avoid conflicts of interest.

All defendants should be treated fairly and equally, regardless of background. Weak cases should not be overcharged to extract plea bargains. Special allegations and enhancements should be used sparingly, with the ultimate objective of promoting public safety.

Nobody should be punished for choosing to exercise their constitutional rights. Due process does not mean giving the bare minimum but ensuring fairness in both process and results. Prosecutors should always strive to do the right thing, in the right way, for the right reasons.

Prosecutors should study and know the laws and constitutions that they promise to uphold and enforce. First and foremost, prosecutors should competently and faithfully enforce the law as it is written by our legislature and interpreted by our courts. We should respect the separation of powers and not overreach.

A competent district attorney’s office should have clear and updated policies and standards, modern technologies and software, and sufficient staffing and resources. All prosecutors should be thoroughly trained and equipped to do their jobs effectively and efficiently. Cases should be properly investigated and reviewed before charges are issued.

Most cases should be handled vertically by one prosecutor so that defendants, victims, and witnesses are treated with utmost care, respect, and professionalism.

We should remember that each of us is human and fallible yet also deserving of respect and dignity. We are, in fact, more than the worst things we have ever done. All of us deserve second chances and need some measure of grace and mercy.

Competent yet compassionate prosecutors exercise discretion in prosecuting cases. We should be fearless advocates for victims and recognize that sometimes the greatest pain and suffering are invisible. Serious and violent crimes should be prioritized without undue delay.

While holding defendants individually accountable, prosecutors should recognize and combat systemic injustices. We should consider defendants holistically and collateral consequences broadly. Our primary goal should be ensuring public safety.