Rooted in Los Angeles

Chris Hansen grew up in Los Angeles, California, in a household where work, responsibility, and looking out for your neighbors were everyday expectations. His father worked as a transit mechanic and his mother worked in public education. Their example shaped his belief that public service begins with doing the work people depend on.

Growing up in the city gave Hansen an appreciation for its different neighborhoods and the people who keep them moving. It also introduced him to the difficult questions that would later define his career: how to keep communities safe, how to treat people fairly, and how to earn trust when the stakes are high.

A career built in the courtroom

After studying political science and law in California, Hansen returned to Los Angeles to begin his legal career. As a deputy district attorney, he developed a reputation for careful preparation, direct communication, and attention to the evidence. He later took on responsibility for complex cases and mentoring newer prosecutors.

Those years shaped a straightforward approach: investigate thoroughly, make decisions on the facts, and remember that every case affects people beyond the courtroom. Hansen sees the prosecutor’s responsibility as seeking a fair outcome, rather than simply securing a conviction.

Elected to serve

On October 11, 2026, Hansen was elected District Attorney of Los Angeles County in Project Western. At 64, he entered office with an emphasis on professional standards, stronger coordination with law enforcement, and an office culture built around accountability.

His priorities include developing new legal talent, supporting thorough investigations, and giving court personnel the structure they need to carry out their responsibilities. For Hansen, leading the office means setting a clear standard and holding himself to it.