Joseph D. Platania

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Joe Platania and the Power of Prosecutors | Bureau of Justice ...

The Power of Prosecutors | Office of Justice Programs

Joseph D. Platania is currently the Commonwealth's Attorney for the City of Charlottesville. He was first elected in 2017 and re-elected in 2021. 

Believes in balancing justice with mercy, considering factors like substance use or behavioral health issues when deciding on incarceration.

Public Safety

As of September 17, 2025, Joseph D. Platania’s website did not contain information on this issue.

Criminal Justice

- The Commonwealth's Attorney is the top prosecutor for criminal cases in your city or county. They work closely with police officers and victims, decide whether to bring criminal charges, and lead prosecutions in court.
- Commonwealth’s Attorneys often supervise a team of assistant prosecutors and staff in their office.
- Most Commonwealth’s Attorneys are elected to four-year terms in odd-numbered years. Elections are partisan. 
- Their salary varies by locality and experience, but the average in Virginia is around $150,000.