It ensures that Commission decisions comply with EU law, preventing or reducing the risk of subsequent litigation.
The first leaders (directors, from 1960 director-generals) of these branches were Michel Gaudet (EEC), Robert Krawielicki (ECSC) and Theo Vogelaar (Euratom).
[6] The original, core functions of the Legal Service – the exclusive right to represent the Commission in courts and to give vis-à-vis legal advice to the Directorate-Generals on the interpretation of European law – did not change essentially since its creation.
It always has, and - still does - play a uniquely central role in the executive branch of the European Union.
Given its special role and the general rules of professional ethics, the members cannot give legal advice to individuals.