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What Does the Attorney General Do?

July 18, 2018

Do you know who is laying down the law in your land?

2018’s New York Attorney General election was poised to be a sleepy one before incumbent Eric Schneiderman’s previously uncontested re-election was derailed by resignation amid alleged abuse charges. As Barbara Underwood replaces him in the interim, candidates have stepped up to run for the job, including current New York City Public Advocate Letitia “Tish” James, former congressional hopeful Zephyr Teachout, and Leecia Eve, all running on the Democratic ticket for September 13th’s primaries, leading up to the November 6 general election. Most AGs are elected democratically, but in five states, they are appointed by governors, in one state by state Supreme Court, and another through secret ballot of the legislature. As this election heats up, it’s important for voters to know the role of our state Attorney General in order to know which candidate will best suit all of our needs when you head to the ballot. So what does the Attorney General do?

Every state has its own Attorney General, and a federal AG is also elected to oversee over all matters across the United States. Each AG governs lawful matters within their jurisdiction, advising their government and serving the citizens. They can also launch lawsuits, even against government agencies, when the citizens’ best interest has not been prioritized. From environmental issues to workers’ rights to ensuring democracy in every space, our Attorney General is responsible for upholding our freedoms through the law.

Typical duties of Attorney General can include:

  • propose legislation
  • the authority to issue formal opinions to state agencies
  • act as public advocates in areas such as child support enforcement
  • consumer protections
  • antitrust and utility regulation
  • enforce federal and state environmental laws
  • represent the state and state agencies before the state and federal courts
  • handle criminal appeals and serious statewide criminal prosecutions
  • institute civil suits on behalf of the state
  • represent the public's interests in charitable trust and solicitations
  • operate victim compensation programs.

 

Want more information on candidate statements, debates, interviews, district profiles and more? Stay tuned to Manhattan Neighborhood Network’s Race To Represent, bringing you the latest on New York elections!

 

Source:

http://www.naag.org/naag/about_naag/faq/what_does_an_attorney_general_d…