The prosecution is the side that is accusing someone of a crime, and trying to prove that accusation. This side includes: The plaintiff – the person making the accusation. For example, if you accuse someone of stealing, you are the plaintiff in court. Counsel – the lawyer representing the plaintiff.

In criminal trials, the state's side, represented by a district attorney, is called the prosecution. In civil trials, the side making the charge of wrongdoing is called the plaintiff. (The side charged with wrongdoing is called the defendant in both criminal and civil trials.)

On the other side of the courtroom is the prosecutor. A prosecutor’s role is not to secure a conviction by any means necessary but rather to seek justice. They represent the government and, by default, the people. Their tasks include: Gather and present evidence to prove the defendant’s guilt File criminal charges against the accused