The work of a prosecutor is complex. Every defendant, victim, and case is unique. Therefore, serving fair and equal justice is different from case to case, and it’s the prosecutor's job to use their expertise, skills, and knowledge of the law to find a just resolution. That’s what Deputy County Attorney Adriana Genco enjoys the most about her job at MCAO. “Every day, I get to drive to the office to do justice. It is my job to uphold the law, give crime victims a voice, and help the community with the resolution of each one of my cases. I take pride in my contribution to my community. That is my favorite part of the job.” Adriana believes it’s her responsibility as a prosecutor not only to know the law and the rules but also to approach each case as a member of the community she serves.
Adriana became interested in working for the County Attorney’s Office after completing a summer internship after her first year of law school at the Sandra Day O’Connor School of Law at ASU. For Adriana, the staff drew her to the office the most. “Every attorney and staff member was friendly and always willing to help. To be able to walk into the office next to mine, or any other, and ask questions was invaluable.”
Even now, as a prosecutor, Adriana appreciates the mentorship and support she receives from her peers. “I’ve been fortunate to find mentors who will volunteer to sit with me during a trial and help me with case law or a rule I didn’t know, but also mentors who will make me think about a victim’s perspective, a defendant’s perspective, and what is a just resolution.” She shares that regardless of whether you are an intern, a new, or an experienced prosecutor, someone will be there to help you. “There is a wealth of knowledge at MCAO, and everyone is happy to share that knowledge.”
At her current position in the White Collar and Cyber Crime Bureau of the Special Prosecution Division, Adriana’s day-to-day varies between court hearings, trials, reviewing discovery and reports for charging, preparing for trial, and communicating with law enforcement and defense attorneys.
In addition to finding a just resolution to cases, Adriana knows the impact of her work goes beyond the courtroom. As a first-generation Latina immigrant, Adriana understands the importance of having an office that reflects the demographics of the community it serves. She sees what a difference it makes to Spanish-speaking victims to be able to communicate in a language they’re comfortable with. “I can see the relief in their faces when they first realize they can speak to me directly about the case, a restitution, or just about their concerns going forward.” Similarly, although she doesn’t communicate directly with defendants or their families, Adriana believes that “seeing a prosecutor on their case that looks like them, shares their culture, and understands certain factors, creates a greater sense of equal justice for all.”
For women considering a career in law, Adriana shares that “it’s very rewarding work and if you enjoy the work, then follow your passion!” She encourages those interested to apply for an internship with a public agency like the County Attorney’s or Public Defender’s Office.
In addition to her work at the County Attorney’s Office, Adriana is a board member of Los Abogados, Arizona's Hispanic Bar Association, which provides support and empowers Latinos in the legal profession.
Fun Fact: Something many may not know about Adriana is that she didn’t try a peanut butter and jelly sandwich until she was 19 and now only eats them if they’re grilled!