Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Business Law Practice Exam

Which of the following roles is responsible for representing the government in a prosecution?

1. Prosecutor

2. Defendant

3. Judge

4. Lawyer

The correct answer is: Prosecutor

The role responsible for representing the government in a prosecution is the prosecutor. A prosecutor is typically an attorney who is employed by the government to conduct criminal cases against individuals accused of violating the law. Their primary job is to present evidence, build a case, and argue for a conviction in court on behalf of the state or federal government. In contrast, the defendant refers to the individual accused of a crime; this person is entitled to legal representation but does not play a role in prosecuting the case. The judge oversees the court proceedings, ensuring that the law is followed and maintaining order in the courtroom, but does not engage in the prosecution or defense. Lastly, while a lawyer is a general term for someone who practices law, not all lawyers represent the government in a prosecutorial capacity. Only those specifically employed as prosecutors fulfill this role.