Prosecuting attorneys represent local, state or federal governments in criminal court cases. In addition to trying cases, they also interview witnesses or victims, evaluate police reports and perform legal research to plan the prosecution of each case. Becoming a prosecuting attorney requires earning a bachelor's degree and a J.D., which involves a minimum of seven years of post-secondary education. After graduating from law school, attorneys must pass their state's bar exam and fulfill any other requirements for licensure before they are permitted to practice law.