Office of the Maryland Attorney General
The Attorney General is the chief legal officer of the state. The Attorney General's Office has general charge, supervision and direction of the legal business of the state, acting as legal advisors and representatives of the major agencies, various boards, commissions, officials and institutions of state government. The Office further represents the state in all cases pending in the appellate courts of the state, and in the U.S. Supreme Court and lower federal courts. The Office is comprised of divisions and specialized units including: • The Antitrust Division enforces the Maryland Antitrust Act in order to foster fair and honest competition in the state of Maryland. In addition, the Division may represent the state and all Maryland political subdivisions in damage actions brought under federal and state antitrust statutes. • The Civil Litigation Division handles major litigation in which the state, its agencies, or officers, is a party. This includes defending the state and state employees in state and federal trial and appellate courts as well as filing suits on behalf of the state. • The Civil Rights Division handles reviewing and responding to civil rights complaints from constituents that are directed to the Attorney General. This division also engages in community outreach activities to educate the public about civil rights. In addition, it reviews and evaluates possible civil rights violations based upon patterns or practices that have a significant impact in Maryland. The Office also partners with the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights as well as other organizations or government agencies on matters related to discrimination and injustice and monitors legislation and administrative rules that involve civil rights with a view toward making recommendations. • The Consumer Protection Division provides a mediation and arbitration service to consumers to help resolve complaints against businesses and health insurance carriers; registers health clubs and new home builders; and produces a wide array of consumer education materials. • The Contract Litigation Division represents state agencies in litigation over disputes relating to state contracts and the award of state contracts under the State General Procurement Law. The Division also provides advice regarding a variety of procurement issues. • The Correctional Litigation Division provides legal representation for state officials and correctional employees who are sued by prisoners in federal and state courts for acts that rise within the scope of their performance of their duties. • The Courts & Judicial Affairs Division represents and advises the judicial branch of state government. In addition, the Division represents select independent agencies, such as the Maryland Tax Court and the Office of Administrative Hearings. • The Criminal Appeals Division represents the state in all criminal matters in the appellate courts of Maryland and in the federal courts at all levels. The Division also offers advice and counsel to the State's Attorneys offices in Maryland as well as other
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