Fernando R. Macìas Third Judicial District Attorney
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VICTIM SERVICES
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FAQS
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NOW HIRING ATTORNEYS
The Third Judicial District Attorney's Office seeks to grow and hire a diverse team of prosecutors, paralegals, investigators, and staff to support the office's mission. Employees are provided with comprehensive benefits and are encouraged to pursue personal and professional development during their time at the office. We strive to maintain a high standard of integrity and professionalism, as well as support a positive and healthy work-life balance.
DA Macias on Youth Gun Violence
District Attorney Fernando Macias spoke at a city council meeting focused on youth violence and community initiatives to prevent it.
Initiatives
Law Enforcement Integrity
We are committed to the investigation and review of officer-involved shootings, allegations of improper use of force, and other law enforcement misconduct. The District Attorney’s Office conducts an independent review of every officer-involved shooting that occurs within Doña Ana County and is also a member of the OIS task force.
Public Integrity
We will review and prosecute criminal crimes and abuses of the public trust by elected/appointed officials and government employees.
Child Abuse and Neglect
- Computer crimes against children; such as online or phone solicitation of a minor, possession of child pornography, and sexual exploitation.
- Abuse and Neglect resulting in injury, or death.
- Drug or alcohol abuse.
Elder Fraud and Abuse
Our commitment to protecting the elderly and vigorously prosecuting those who would perpetrate scams and take advantage of or harm our senior citizens.
Securing Justice for Victims of Crime in Doña Ana County
We handle a wide variety of cases from serious felonies to juvenile offenses.
The Legal Process
Law Enforcement agencies investigate the crime, gather evidence, and identify suspects.
If there's sufficient evidence, the suspect is arrested and taken into custody.
The District Attorney's Office reviews the evidence and decides whether to file charges. If charges are filed, the suspect becomes the defendant.
The defendant is formally charged in court, informed of their rights, and asked to enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest.)
This includes discovery (exchange of evidence between prosecution and defense), pretrial motions, and plea bargaining.
If no plea agreement is reached, the case goes to trial. Both the prosecution and defense teams present their evidence and arguments, and a judge or jury determines the defendant's guilt or innocence.
The judge or jury delivers a verdict. If the defendant is found guilty, the case moves to sentencing.
The judge imposes a penalty based on the severity of the crime, the defendant's criminal history, and other factors.