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The Attorney General’s Office: Represents the State of Washington before the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeals, and trial courts in all the cases involving the state’s interest. Defends in court state officers or employees ethically acting in their official capacities. Investigates and prosecutes persons accused of crimes at the request of the Governor or a county prosecutor. Advises the Governor, members of the Legislature, other state officers, and county prosecutors on legal issues. Gives formal written attorney general’s opinions on constitutional or legal questions at the request of designated public officials. Protects the public by upholding the Consumer Protection Act, enforcing laws against anti-competitive business practices; Represents the public interest in utility matters. Proposes legislation to further the public interest and provide clear, just, and enforceable laws.
What does the Attorney General’s Office NOT do? The Attorney General’s Office is not responsible for representing city, county, or other local units of government. The Attorney General’s Office does not launch investigations without a request from a county prosecutor or the Governor. State law prohibits the Attorney General, deputy attorneys general, and assistant attorneys general from engaging in the private practice of law. This means that they cannot represent private citizens in court either to bring an action on behalf of an individual, or to defend an individual. Any private citizen needing such representation should consult a private attorney. The Attorney General’s Office is not authorized to provide advice to private citizens on personal legal matters. While the office may answer questions of a general nature, most private issues require a detailed analysis of the law, and such services are outside the scope of the office’s authority.
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