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Bridget A. Dinvaut 

District Attorney 

St. John the Baptist Parish 

40th Judicial District 

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your business? 

 My career in the Criminal Justice System includes over 35 plus years of work experience and training at the federal, state, and local levels. I began working as a Bounty Hunter while in college. Thereafter, I served as a Detective with the St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office, rising to the rank of Lieutenant Commander of the Special Investigations Division while also serving on numerous state and federal law enforcement task forces. In 1994, I was commissioned as a Federal Law Enforcement Officer in the Eastern District of Louisiana and assigned to the Federal Courts as a United States Probation Officer, Migratory Bird Treaty Act Sentencing Specialist Assistant, and Certified Safety Instructor for the Eastern, Middle, and Western Districts of Louisiana. I also served in the Southern District of Florida, Miami. 

  I hold a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice and the Degree of Juris Doctor with the great honor of Magna Cum Laude, as well as numerous Law Enforcement Certifications. I am recognized as a Distinguished Alumna of the Southern University Law Center. Upon graduation, I practiced Civil Defense in the concentrated fields of Transportation Law and Labor and Employment Law at Lemle & Kelleher, LLP, one of the oldest and most prestigious law firms in New Orleans.  

  After the death of my father, I returned to St. John Parish and served as an Assistant District Attorney for the St. John the Baptist Parish District Attorney’s Office. Currently, I have the high honor and privilege to serve as District Attorney to our great community. In my capacity as District Attorney for the 40th Judicial District, I was recently elected President of the Louisiana District Attorney’s Association, proudly representing all 42 elected District Attorneys in the State of Louisiana. 

 Who are some role models you look up to and why? 

  My mother is my “shero” and the person I most deeply admire. She departed this earthly place in 1992; however, I often channel the many lessons she taught me– that were tough– but still ring true today. She was a phenomenal, loving, generous, fierce, and spiritual woman, filled with passion for equality and justice, helping others, and making a positive difference. She taught me to love and serve God through words and deeds.    

 She demonstrated a strong example of strength and character and showed me how to stand up for principles and values instead of giving into negative pressures or influences. The event that made a lasting impression on me and inspired me to become a lawyer was when my Mom engaged Attorney Sylvia Taylor, and together, they exposed and defeated injustice and discrimination. I was a Senior in High School. Thank you, Attorney Sylvia Taylor for your fearless and strong representation.   You are appreciated.   

  I would be remiss if I did not mention my wonderful and lovely Godmother and Aunt, Beverly Dinvaut Harris. Although she is no longer with us, I will always remember her and be reminded of her Godly service and commitment to her family, students, and community. She is truly missed. 

Why is it important to encourage and be a role model for other young women that want to get into business? 

  There is a difference between a job and a career…   I have had a rewarding career protecting my community, fighting for justice, fighting against injustices, and helping people who simply needed a second chance or a push in the right direction. The Criminal Justice System is a living, breathing institution that requires not only qualified knowledge, but equally as important, human progress and the passionate concern of dedicated individuals.    

 What advice would you offer? 

  Pray first!  Seek knowledge in all things–gather as many tools and skills as possible.  Be imaginative, be creative, be curious on your journey to find your unique purpose.  Purpose fuels passion.  Use your passion to impact another person in a positive way. Build character and integrity in small things to achieve success in big things.   Every day is a blessing; be thankful, grateful, and kind.