Assignment of case responsibility to the United States Attorney is always with the understanding that the Assistant Attorney General of the Division has supervisory responsibility on behalf of the Attorney General over all litigation under the jurisdiction of the Division.

The United States Attorney shall be primarily responsible for all cases assigned to him/her. If a United States Attorney thinks that he/she cannot accept responsibility by reason of a conflict of interest, the lack of personnel or expertise in the office, or other good reasons, he/she should immediately consult with the Chief of the appropriate Section to determine if some other assignment of responsibility can be made.

Regular communication should be maintained with the appropriate Section of the Division regarding the conduct of litigation assigned to the United States Attorneys, especially if any problems arise in connection with a case. The Division is organized so as to maintain considerable expertise in the particular subject matter areas under the jurisdiction of the Division and can provide valuable assistance to the United States Attorney, including assistance in preparing pleadings and briefs as well as providing advice on the substantive law and the handling of litigation. A copy of the final order entered in any case must be transmitted promptly to the appropriate Section of the Division.

[cited in JM 5-1.300; JM 5-1.322; JM 5-1.324; JM 5-6.302]

[Updated April 2018]