Guam Supreme Court to Explain Attorney General's Dual Role in Upcoming Case

The Supreme Court of Guam has taken up a case that will address the Attorney General's dual responsibilities as both prosecutor and legal counsel for government agencies. Governor Lou Leon Guerrero filed a Request for Declaratory Judgment challenging the Attorney General's recent withdrawal from representing certain Executive Branch agencies.

The Court determined it has jurisdiction over the matter and found the issues presented to be of great public importance warranting expedited resolution. It has ordered Governor Leon Guerrero and the Attorney General to submit briefs in the coming weeks, with oral arguments scheduled for May 20, 2024.

Governor Leon Guerrero stated that the Attorney General's withdrawal from agency representation will substantially impact government operations. "The Court's decision is expected to restore stability to the agencies after the chaos caused by the withdrawal," the Governor said.

Why this matters: The outcome of this case will have significant implications for the functioning of the Guam government. It will provide clarity on the Attorney General's responsibilities and the extent to which they can withdraw from representing government agencies.

The Supreme Court's decision to take up the case and expedite its resolution emphasizes the importance of the issues at stake. With oral arguments set for next month, a ruling is expected to follow soon after that will determine the path forward for the Attorney General's office and the agencies it represents.

Key Takeaways

• Guam Supreme Court to hear case on AG's duties to agencies
• Governor challenged AG's withdrawal from representing agencies
• Court found issues of great public importance, ordered expedited resolution
• Outcome will clarify AG's responsibilities and ability to withdraw
• Ruling expected soon after May 20, 2024 oral arguments