Department of Attorney General's Duties
An attorney general is the chief legal officer within a government. The United States attorney general is a member of the president's Cabinet and head of the Department of Justice. He is nominated by the president and confirmed by the Senate. Additionally, each state has an attorney general who performs duties of a similar nature to the U.S. attorney general. At the state level the official only has jurisdiction over the laws within their states. Attorneys general on the state level typically are elected to their positions.
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Law Enforcement
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In each state and on the federal level, the department of attorney general represents the people under its jurisdiction, directing all state or federal attorneys in this mission. This includes all types of legal proceedings, including criminal and civil trials, appellate and supreme courts. The department also partners with district attorneys and various law enforcement agencies, including police departments, sheriffs departments and the FBI, assisting in the administration of justice. When partnering with law enforcement agencies, departments of attorney general may serve as a liaison, coordinating the efforts of multiple organizations as well as providing resources such as forensic investigation services. Additionally, this department may actively participate in criminal investigations by interrogating witnesses and alleged criminals.
Government Representation
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In some instances, charges of misconduct are brought against the government in both state and federal courts of law. When this occurs, the department of attorney general serves as the legal representative of the government, providing counsel in all hearings, trials and other matters. This representation may be of the government as a whole or a specific government officer such as a governor or congressman. While the department of attorney general cannot represent an individual, the office can represent officers who are being tried for actions resulting from their duties while in service to the public.
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Ethical Obligations
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The primary duty of the department of attorney general is to service the best interest of the public within the group's jurisdiction. As a result, it is imperative for an attorney general and staff to adhere to the highest ethical standards. This means that money, gifts or other goods exchanged for services rendered is strictly prohibited. Additionally, as the highest legal authority all members of the department must themselves follow the letter of the law.
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References
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