Criminal Divisions
SCREENING DIVISION
The Jefferson Parish District Attorney’s Office utilizes a screening division where assistant district attorneys evaluate criminal complaints submitted by various law enforcement agencies of Jefferson Parish. All information regarding arrests or criminal investigations enters the District Attorney’s Office through the this unit. The attorneys consult with police officers, victims and witnesses and review all evidence of the complaint to determine if a charge can be proven in court beyond a reasonable doubt. If sufficient evidence exists, the screener files a bill of Information, formally charging the defendant with a crime. If there is insufficient evidence to support a charge, the case is refused and the defendant is released from jail or bond obligation.
The screening attorneys are also responsible for preparing and presenting certain cases to the grand jury prior to filing formal charges through a Bill of Indictment.