As the largest bureau within CCSAO, the Criminal Prosecutions Bureau (CPB) comprises multiple divisions and units. With a team of approximately 500 dedicated Assistant State’s Attorneys, CPB is committed to serving the residents of Cook County through diligent and honest prosecution of crimes.
While the State's Attorney's Office encompasses a diverse range of functions, the heart of its operation has always been centered around the prosecution of criminal cases. Within the Criminal Prosecutions Bureau, Assistant State's Attorneys (ASAs) handle all aspects of over 30,000 felony cases and several hundred thousand misdemeanor cases annually.
The dedicated ASAs in the Felony Review Unit work tirelessly, operating 24/7, 365 days a year to make critical charging decisions and ensure the appropriate cases are brought to trial. Meanwhile, ASAs in the Preliminary Hearings Unit meticulously present vital information during bond hearings and skillfully present cases before the Grand Jury to seek criminal indictments.
Across the six districts of Cook County, ASAs are assigned to more than 50 felony courtrooms, where they prosecute the most serious crimes plaguing our community, including cases of murder and sexual assault. Additionally, ASAs in specialized units handle sensitive matters like domestic violence cases, child sex assault, child pornography cases, and serious traffic offenses.
The Criminal Appeals Division is tasked with safeguarding rightful convictions and sentences. ASAs in this division diligently work to maintain the integrity of previous rulings when faced with challenges from convicted criminals seeking to overturn their convictions, even after many years have passed.
Moreover, the Special Litigation Unit and the DNA Review Unit play instrumental roles in preserving rightful convictions and sentences, especially when faced with appeals from those who were previously found guilty. These units ensure that justice remains steadfast and unyielding.
The dedication and expertise of ASAs in the Criminal Prosecutions Bureau underscore the State's Attorney's commitment to upholding the law, seeking justice, and protecting the well-being of our community.