office of the state attorney 20th judicial circuit

The State of Florida is divided into 20 geographical areas known as Judicial Circuits. Each circuit has an elected State Attorney. The 20th Judicial Circuit, formed in 1969, consists of five counties: Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry, and Lee. It is the largest circuit, geographically, in the state. Under our Florida Constitution, the State Attorney serves as the prosecutor, representing the people in criminal courts throughout the circuit. The primary function of the State Attorneys Office is to review criminal investigations and complaints submitted by law enforcement agencies and others, filing formal charges supported by the law and the evidence, and then presenting these cases in our courts. By holding persons accountable for their criminal acts, the State Attorneys office seeks to deter crime and to ensure Southwest Florida is a safe place for our citizens and visitors. Amira Fox is only the third State Attorney for the 20th Judicial Circuit since 1969 and succeeded Stephen B. Russell and Joseph P. DAlessandro. Our Mission; The citizens of Southwest Florida have a right to be represented in criminal matters by a State Attorney and staff who are competent, experienced, and dedicated to enforcing the law. Decisions will be made based on the law and the evidence. The rights of the victims of crime shall always be respected and enforced through vigorous and fair prosecution.