Attorney General

In most common law jurisdictions, the Attorney General or Attorney-General, is the main legal adviser to the government, and in some jurisdictions may in addition have executive responsibility for law enforcement or responsibility for public prosecutions.

England and Wales

The Attorney General for England and Wales is similarly the chief law officer of the Crown in England and Wales, and advises and represents the Crown and government departments in court. In practice, the Treasury Solicitor normally provides the lawyers to do the actual appearance in court, although the Attorney General may appear in person if he wishes. He provides legal advice to the Government; for example, on the legality of the second Gulf War. He also acts as the representative of the public interest; for example, in relation to charities.

Related Topics:
Attorney General for England and Wales - Treasury Solicitor - Gulf War

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The Attorney General has supervisory powers over the prosecution of criminal offences, but is not personally involved with prosecutions; however, some prosecutions (e.g. Riot) cannot be commenced without his consent, and he has the power to halt prosecutions generally. Criminal prosecutions are the responsibility of the Crown Prosecution Service, headed by the Director of Public Prosecutions. The Attorney General may appeal cases to the higher courts where, although the particular case is settled, a point of law of public importance is at issue.

Related Topics:
Riot - Crown Prosecution Service - Director of Public Prosecutions

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The Attorney General of the Duchy of Cornwall is the chief legal adviser to the Prince of Wales, and there is a separate Attorney General for the Duchy of Lancaster, which is owned by the Crown.

Related Topics:
Duchy of Cornwall - Prince of Wales - Duchy of Lancaster

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: For Scotland, see Lord Advocate

Related Topics:
Scotland - Lord Advocate

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