Attorneys General: Duties to Administrative Agencies and Other Responsibilities

Attorney general has exclusive jurisdiction.

In certain cases only to prepare or review legal documents and represent the public before the agency.

Although rare, the attorney general has the authority under certain circumstances to initiate litigation against a state agency.

Can appear on own discretion.

May appear for the state in criminal appeals either as the actual prosecutor in the case or through the solicitor general if the state has a broader interest.

When assisting local prosecutor in the appeal.

Most state agencies are represented by agency counsel who do not answer to the attorney general. The attorney general does provide representation for agencies in conflict situations and where the agency requires additional or specialized assistance.

The Attorney General serves as counsel for the public before 1 administrative body, but otherwise does not represent the public before agencies.

Consumer Advocate Division represents the public in utility rate making hearings and rule making proceedings.

Other administrative duties include representing one state agency before another state agency.

Regarding criminal appeals, the Office of Attorney General handles federal habeas corpus appeals only.

Limited to certain collateral challenges to state criminal convictions.

On request of agency. Office acts as legal counsel to any state agency on request and that can include reviewing legislation and drafting rules and regulations.

However, OUSA handles felony cases and most major misdemeanors.