Which party represents the state in criminal law proceedings?

In criminal law proceedings, the prosecutor is the party that represents the state. This individual, typically an attorney, is responsible for presenting the case against the accused, known as the defendant. The role of the prosecutor is to enforce the law on behalf of the government and the public, proving that the defendant committed the crime as charged.

The prosecutor's responsibilities include presenting evidence, calling witnesses, and making legal arguments during the trial. Their goal is to uphold justice and ensure that the laws of the state are enforced. This role is crucial because criminal cases are considered violations against the state or society, rather than just a personal dispute between individuals.

In contrast, the defendant is the individual accused of the crime, the claimant is generally associated with civil cases where one party claims damages from another, and the judge is an impartial arbiter who oversees the trial and ensures that legal procedures are followed. Each of these other roles plays a distinct part in the legal process, but it is the prosecutor who specifically represents the interests of the state in criminal matters.