Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office – Pittsburgh, PA

Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office: Pursuing Justice and Safety

The Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office, headquartered in the historic Allegheny County Courthouse on Grant Street, serves as the chief law enforcement agency for the county. Led by District Attorney Stephen A. Zappala Jr., this office is responsible for the prosecution of all criminal offenses that occur within the county’s borders. The DA’s Office works in close collaboration with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to ensure public safety, uphold the rule of law, and seek justice for victims of crime.

Core Functions and Divisions

The scope of the District Attorney’s Office is vast, encompassing numerous specialized units to handle different types of criminal cases efficiently:

• Criminal Prosecution: Assistant District Attorneys (ADAs) represent the Commonwealth in preliminary hearings, trials, and appeals for crimes ranging from summary offenses to major felonies like homicide.
• Investigative Division: This unit, staffed by county detectives, conducts independent investigations into sophisticated crimes, including narcotics trafficking, organized crime, and financial fraud.
• Specialized Units: The office maintains dedicated teams for Domestic Violence, Child Abuse, Auto Theft, and Insurance Fraud, ensuring expert handling of these sensitive and complex matters.
• Pre-Trial Diversion: Programs such as ARD (Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition) offer first-time, non-violent offenders an opportunity to expunge their records upon successful completion of probation and community service.

Victim and Community Services

Beyond prosecution, the District Attorney’s Office is deeply committed to supporting those affected by crime:

• Center for Victims: The office collaborates closely with victim advocacy groups to provide counseling, restitution assistance, and accompaniment to court proceedings.
• Witness Protection: Ensuring the safety of witnesses is a priority, with resources dedicated to protecting those who testify in dangerous cases.
• Community Outreach: The DA’s office engages in educational programs aimed at crime prevention, drug awareness, and senior safety.

Location and Access

The main office is located in Room 303 of the Allegheny County Courthouse. This architectural landmark is the hub of the county’s judicial activity. Access to the DA’s office is controlled; visitors must pass through rigorous security screening at the courthouse entrances. The office is open to the public during standard business hours, though appointments are recommended for specific inquiries. While the office does not provide legal defense for the accused, it is the primary point of contact for victims seeking information about their cases.