The Prosecuting Attorney is the county's chief criminal and civil representative in court, and prosecutes criminals in the name of the state. When someone is arrested for a felony crime, such as murder, rape, robbery, theft, or fraud, the County Prosecutor presents the evidence in court on behalf of "the people" to demonstrate the defendant's guilt.

The prosecuting Attorney is legal advisor to all county officials and county boards. The Prosecuting Attorney is responsible for all cases relating to juveniles, including child neglect and abuse, juvenile crime and traffic violations.

In recent years the Prosecuting Attorney has become more involved in child support cases and enforcing child support orders under contracts with the Child Support Enforcement Agency.