Detailed Roadmap to Core Readings

The first reading is the NAAG chapter on AG criminal authority. It varies considerably from state to state. Next, the readings examine the AG relationship with DAs, who in almost every state prosecute the bulk of crimes (and state criminal prosecutions dwarf federal prosecutions). In looking at the compendium of the AG-DA referrals, ask yourself if the referral made sense, and then the readings dive into recent high-profile examples from MS, GA, and MN.

A major issue that comes up in AG offices, but not too many other places, is the role of parallel proceedings. When and how can an AG proceed with both the civil and criminal aspects of a case is a tricky issue. The NM policy attempts to come up with rules to address this issue.

AGs are often at the forefront of more political prosecutions, or, occasionally, are the subject of such prosecutions. The readings present examples from NM, PA, and NV. 

A few AGs also have investigative grand jury powers, which enable them to conduct investigations and issue reports, as opposed to indictments. We'll look at the implications of such power.