Nueces County DA's Office seeks $1M for salary increases to combat attorney shortage

Nueces County officials are taking significant steps to address a critical staffing shortage in the District Attorney's Office, which has been operating under capacity for over two years. During a recent budget workshop, District Attorney Sunshine Stannick highlighted the urgent need for competitive salaries to attract and retain experienced prosecutors. Currently, the office is short 14 attorneys, which has led to bottlenecks in case processing and increased pressure on existing staff.

Stannick emphasized that the shortage of prosecutors not only affects the efficiency of the legal system but also has broader implications for community safety. With a fully staffed office of 40 attorneys, the DA's office aims to reduce crime and ensure timely justice for residents. To achieve this, Stannick proposed a $600,000 increase in attorney salaries, averaging a $15,000 raise per attorney, to align with compensation in surrounding counties.

The budget request also includes funding for additional support staff, with a total increase of $400,000 aimed at enhancing operational efficiency. This includes creating new positions such as attorney assistants and a chief investigator, which would help manage heavy caseloads and ensure compliance with legal obligations.

Stannick pointed out that the current pay for staff is not competitive, with starting salaries for administrative roles falling below those of entry-level positions in retail. She argued that investing in the DA's office is crucial for maintaining public safety and preventing crime, as a well-staffed office can effectively manage cases and reduce the jail population, ultimately saving the county money.

The proposed budget adjustments are expected to cost taxpayers approximately $2.92 per person annually, a small price for the potential benefits of a more effective legal system. As the county grapples with these staffing challenges, the DA's office remains committed to improving its operations and ensuring justice for the community.