The functions of the department are as follows:

i) Handling prosecutions in respect of offences against persons such as murder, armed robbery, assault, rape, defilement, criminal defamation and public order offences such as treason. 

ii) Supervising the handling of prosecutions in respect of offences against persons, traffic and sexual based offences. 

iii) Conducting criminal and related proceedings in relation to cases instituted before courts of law.

iv) Advising the Government, Ministries, departments and other agencies on matters relating to offences against the person, traffic and sexual offences.

v) Handling international and regional treaties and other instruments having a bearing on the prevention, control and prosecution of offences against the person, traffic and sexual offences.

vi) Conducting research, review and making of recommendations on the status and quality of the laws on offences against persons, traffic and sexual offences

vii) Guiding and advising investigating agencies in relation to offences against persons, traffic and sexual offences.

 viii) Analysis of judgments, and preparation of appropriate documents for appeal, review, or revision and related proceedings where necessary.

Divisions:

a) Offences against Persons Division

b) Traffic Offences Division

c) Sexual Offences Division