Who We Are
The Conference was established by the General Assembly “…to assist in improving the administration of justice in North Carolina by coordinating the prosecution efforts of the various district attorneys.” The primary objective of the Conference is to provide crucial support to prosecutors in the discharge of their duties. To accomplish this, the Conference extends a range of valuable resources and guidance, including Professional Development, Publications, and Research Assistance. These resources enable prosecutors to uphold justice for North Carolina’s citizens in an effective and efficient manner.
Victim Rights
If you have experienced any sort of crime, the legal system may seem overwhelming due to its complex processes, legal jargon, and professionals. But, you have rights as a victim that must be respected. To gain knowledge about your rights and access vital information, please explore the Victims Tab and other resources available to you. You can rest assured that you have the ability to take action and make sure your rights are upheld.
Upcoming Trainings
Talking to a jury
- January 13, 2025 – January 16, 2025
- Charlotte, NC
This four-day trial advocacy course will offer thorough training in the trial skills needed to successfully present your cases to juries. The course targets prosecutors who are relatively new to Superior Court jury trials, but it may also be helpful for those already experienced in this area. This course includes hands-on exercises and substantive presentations on several trial advocacy topics, including; jury selection; effective opening statements; direct examination; cross-examination; closing arguments; using effective presentations; and other essential trial advocacy skills.
Investigator's Round Table
This workshop is designed to provide a forum and training opportunity for individuals assigned as District Attorney Investigators. During the round table, you will have the opportunity to share ideas, challenges, and best practices. The training portion provides information in topic areas that may be part of the DA Investigator’s duties and responsibilities.
Juvenile Court Boot Camp
In light of the recent changes in juvenile court, it’s crucial for prosecutors and legal assistants to be equipped with the necessary skills to serve effectively as a juvenile court prosecutor. The implementation of “Raise the Age” has significantly altered the process of handling a juvenile caseload, and this three-day course is designed to assist prosecutors and legal assistants in comprehending the mechanics and complexities of juvenile delinquency court. During the training, attendees will be assigned a case to practically apply the skills they’ve learned and work the entire juvenile court process to successfully resolve their case.
This course is held annually, however the content changes from year to year.
Want to learn more?
View All TrainingsAshley Hornsby Welch
Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Jackson, Macon, and Swain Counties
Ashley Hornsby Welch is the District Attorney for Prosecutorial District 43 which encompasses Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Jackson, Macon, and Swain Counties in NC. She attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in History. She then received her Juris Doctorate from William and Mary School of Law in 2003.
District Attorney Ashley Welch began serving as an Assistant District Attorney in Prosecutorial District 29 from 2003 until 2005 where she honed her skills as a trial prosecutor with cases ranging from minor crimes to murder and rape. In 2005, she began working in Prosecutorial District 30 (now Prosecutorial District 43). She was elected as District Attorney in 2014. Her focus is on prosecuting cases involving felony offenses against children, habitual felons, drug dealers, and driving while impaired.
District Attorney Ashley Welch was the first woman elected as District Attorney in Prosecutorial District 43. She was appointed as a Commissioner for The North Carolina Innocence Inquiry Commission, a state agency dedicated to investigating wrongful convictions in 2020. In January of 2024, she was honored with the Attorney General’s Dogwood Award recognizing her as someone who works to improve the health, safety, and well-being of her fellow North Carolinians.
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Find District AttorneyHow Can We Help?
The North Carolina Conference of District Attorneys offers a wealth of valuable information and assistance to prosecutors and their law enforcement partners. If you are unable to locate the answers you require, please do not hesitate to reach out to our team members. We are dedicated to providing guidance and direction to ensure that the needs of prosecutors are met with the utmost professionalism and respect.