Are California attorney general opinions binding?
The Attorney General’s opinions are advisory, and not legally binding on courts, agencies, or individuals.
What is an AG opinion?
As the chief law officer of the state, the California Attorney General provides legal opinions upon request to designated state and local public officials and government agencies on issues arising in the course of their duties.
Does the AG investigate?
Each AG office has a dedicated team of staff responsible for receiving, investigating, and addressing consumer complaints. The offices track and analyze complaint volumes and trends.
What does the AG of California do?
The Attorney General is the state’s top lawyer and law enforcement official, protecting and serving the people and interests of California through a broad range of duties. Assists district attorneys, local law enforcement and federal and international criminal justice agencies in the administration of justice.
When should I ask for a lawyer?
You should request an attorney immediately if you are being questioned about a crime and you may be the target of the investigation. You should request an attorney if the answers may incriminate you. Perhaps just as importantly, you should request an attorney if you are not sure.
Are there common law crimes in California?
A common law crime is a crime that is punishable under the common law, rather than by statutory law. In those states, the prosecution would have to rely on common law (law contained in court opinions) to obtain a conviction. In California, however, Penal Code section 401 specifically prohibits assisted suicide.
What are the examples of opinion?
The definition of an opinion is a belief, impression, judgment or prevailing view held by a person. An example of opinion is the San Francisco Giants are the best baseball team. An example of opinion is purple is the best color. An example of opinion is capitalism is better than socialism.
What does a state AG do?
Attorneys general are the top legal officers of their state or territory. They advise and represent their legislature and state agencies and act as the “People’s Lawyer” for the citizens. Most are elected, though a few are appointed by the governor.
Can police interrogate you without lawyer?
Police are required to stop their interrogation at the time you ask for an attorney, and cannot question you further until you have an attorney present. You must clearly communicate that you are asking for an attorney and that you do not wish to be questioned anymore.
Should I talk to police without a lawyer?
In general, you do not have to talk to law enforcement officers (or anyone else), even if you do not feel free to walk away from the officer, you are arrested, or you are in jail. You cannot be punished for refusing to answer a question. It is a good idea to talk to a lawyer before agreeing to answer questions.
Can a state attorney general give an opinion?
The Attorney General is authorized to give opinions on questions of law to state legislators, heads of state departments, district attorneys, county counsels, sheriffs, and to city attorneys in their prosecutorial capacities. The Attorney General is not permitted to give legal opinions to members of the public.
Where can I get a legal opinion in California?
The California Supreme Court and Court of Appeal are state agencies authorized to request opinions. Requests should come from the chief justice or a presiding justice of the court or, as is usually the case, be submitted by the Administrative Office of the Courts. 3.
What are the duties of the attorney general’s opinion unit?
The Attorney General’s Opinion Unit is responsible for researching and drafting the formal opinions of the Attorney General. This Monthly Opinion Report lists all of the questions that are currently under consideration for formal opinions.
Who is the chief law officer of California?
As the chief law officer of the state, the California Attorney General provides legal opinions upon request to designated state and local public officials and government agencies on issues arising in the course of their duties. The formal legal opinions of the Attorney General have been accorded “great respect” and “great weight” by the courts.