[4] This includes upholding the rule of law[6] and advising on compliance with domestic and international obligations.

[8] This reduces the extent to which the Attorney-General's actions on behalf of the state (as opposed to the government) can be influenced by their political allegiance.

[12] The Cabinet Manual outlines the process by which the legal advice provided by the Attorney-General (and others) may be disclosed.

[14] The post of Attorney-General has existed since the separation of New Zealand as a distinct Crown Colony from New South Wales.

In November 1906, when Albert Pitt died, there was no lawyer in the governing Liberal Party who was free take up the position.

[16]: 74 The table below is an incomplete listing of New Zealand politicians who have held political appointment as Attorney-General since 1856.