[7] The attorney general's duties and responsibilities as the chief law enforcement officer of the federal government include overseeing the United States Department of Justice, enforcing federal laws, and providing both formal and informal legal advice and opinions to the president of the United States, the cabinet, and the heads of executive departments and agencies.

The attorney general represents the federal government in legal matters and supervises the administration and operation of the Department of Justice, which includes the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Office of Justice Programs, U.S.

[8] Additionally, the attorney general advises the president of the United States on appointments to federal judicial positions and Department of Justice roles, including U.S.

The attorney general manages legal issues involving public safety, civil rights, and national security.

The attorney general also communicates legal concerns to Congress and ensures compliance with federal laws across states.

For example, in 2001, the PATRIOT Act expanded the department's surveillance and investigative authority in matters of terrorism and national security, significantly impacting the scope of the attorney general’s responsibilities.

§ 508 establishes the first two positions in the line of succession, while allowing the attorney general to designate other high-ranking officers of the Department of Justice as subsequent successors.