Dep DAs

The Deputy District Attorney III is assigned with the prosecution of individuals accused of violating state and local laws - primarily those offenses at the felony level. In undertaking this assignment, the Deputy District Attorney III will advise and assist in law enforcement investigations; review crime reports; make decisions as to whether a suspect is charged with a crime and what crime will be charged; conduct further investigation with the assistance of local law enforcement and the investigative staff of the District Attorney’s Office; formulate and forward plea agreements; and prepare and respond to various pre-trial and appellate motions. The Deputy District Attorney III also represents the District Attorney’s Office in court while prosecuting the various aspects of a felony, criminal offense – including pre-trial hearings, motions, trials and sentencing hearings. The Deputy District Attorney III assists in the training of local law enforcement and education of the public in matters relevant to the Plumas County criminal justice system. The Deputy District Attorney III also performs other varied duties as assigned by the District Attorney.

Gary McGowan
Deputy District Attorney II

The Deputy District Attorney’s main responsibility is to review reports from local law enforcement agencies requesting criminal complaints. Each report and request is reviewed to determine if there is sufficient evidence to support the criminal charges and the issuance of a complaint. The evidence is reviewed to determine if it is sufficient to prove the charge to a jury beyond a reasonable doubt. If the evidence is sufficient and a complaint filed, then the Deputy District Attorney represents the People of the State of California at arraignment, pretrial negotiations, motions and trial.
The responsibilities of the Deputy District Attorney also include providing legal advice in criminal matters to local law enforcement agencies, such as the Plumas County Sheriff’s Department, the California Highway Patrol, and the California Department of Fish and Game.