Under the Constitution of the State of Florida, the State Attorney is the chief prosecuting officer. The State Attorney and his or her appointed assistants, represent the State of Florida in all criminal trial courts (circuit and county) in their respective circuit. Florida is divided into 20 judicial circuits. The Fourth Judicial Circuit is comprised of Duval, Clay & Nassau counties. Specific duties are detailed in Chapter 27 of the Florida Statutes.

The State Attorney is required to provide personnel and procedures for the orderly, efficient and effective investigation, intake and processing of all felony, misdemeanor, criminal traffic, juvenile and certain civil cases referred by law enforcement, other state, county, and municipal agencies, as well as the general public.