Prosecution in the District Court Private solicitors cannot prosecute trials in the New South Wales District Court. The New South Wales Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions is the prosecuting service and government agency responsible for prosecuting serious criminal offences in the New South Wales District Court. Representation in the District Court If you are charged with a serious criminal offence, it is important to seek legal advice and seriously consider the need for legal representation. Unless you are a trained and experienced legal practitioner who practices regularly in the area of criminal law, you likely won’t understand the complex legislation which governs NSW District Court Trials. However, there is no requirement that a defendant appearing in the District Court be legally represented. An accused can either appear legally represented or self represent. In saying this, it is rare for any person other than a legal practitioner to play an active role in the District Court Trial Process. In any NSW District Court proceeding, an individual has the right to be assisted by a person known generally as a “McKenzie friend”. A McKenzie friend is a person who supports the accused throughout the proceeding but is not a legal representative and may not speak in court on the accused’s behalf. The McKenzie friend may assist by taking notes and offering advice. Read More on The District Court in NSW