The Office of the Advocate General recently reviewed its purpose and priorities. Click here to download our leaflet that outlines our purpose and priorities and to view our organisational structure.
The Office of the Advocate General has 4 Divisions, 3 which are based in Edinburgh and one which is based in London. They are:
All Divisions work flexibly and support each other in the delivery of OAG's purpose.
The Litigation Division provides Scots Law advice and support in respect of any action raised by or against a UK Government department in Scotland. In the main, the Division deals with Home Office litigation in Scotland. It also supports the Advocate General in respect of any action raised or defended in the Scottish Courts. Details in respect of the type of cases in which the Litigation Division has supported the Advocate General can be found at our Involvement in Cases page on our internet site.
The Advisory and Legislation Division provides legal advice and services to UK Government departments, ensuring Scots Law and the devolution settlement are taken into account in the development of UK Government policy and legislation.
The HMRC Division joined OAG on 1 April 2011. This Division deals with HM Revenue & Customs’ legal work in Scotland. This covers tax appeals through the Tribunal system and on appeal to the higher courts, as well as a variety of other litigation for the department. The team also provides advisory services to HMRC in relation to Scottish matters, and undertakes some legislative work, notably in connection with the Finance Bill.
The Legal Secretariat to the Advocate General provides support to the Advocate General in his capacity as a UK Law Officer, including the exercise of statutory functions under the Scotland Act. It also supports him with his Ministerial responsibilities, including supporting him as a member of Cabinet Committees and as a Member of the House of Lords. The Advocate General’s day-to-day activities are co-ordinated and supported by his Private Office, enabling him to discharge his functions effectively.
For information on Service of Documents on the Advocate General, read our Service of Documents section.