How is the Commonwealth Attorney chosen?

• A. Appointed by governor
• B. Elected by voters
• C. Chosen by the judiciary
• D. Appointed by state bar association

Answer: (B)

In Virginia, the Commonwealth's Attorney is an elected prosecutor for a county or city. The person is chosen by the voters in that locality during elections and serves a fixed term. This arrangement keeps the office accountable to the public, since residents can evaluate how charges are pursued, what policies are emphasized, and how public safety is managed. It’s different from being appointed by the governor, the judiciary, or the state bar association, which would place selection outside the ballot box. The voting system ensures the community has a direct say in who represents them in prosecuting crimes.