§8.  Attorney General; Powers and Duties

Section 8.  There shall be a Department of Justice, headed by the attorney general, who shall be the chief legal officer of the state.  The attorney general shall be elected for a term of four years at the state general election.  The assistant attorneys general shall be appointed by the attorney general to serve at his pleasure.  

As necessary for the assertion or protection of any right or interest of the state, the attorney general shall have authority (1) to institute, prosecute, or intervene in any civil action or proceeding; (2) upon the written request of a district attorney, to advise and assist in the prosecution of any criminal case; and (3) for cause, when authorized by the court which would have original jurisdiction and subject to judicial review, (a) to institute, prosecute, or intervene in any criminal action or proceeding, or (b) to supersede any attorney representing the state in any civil or criminal action.  

The attorney general shall exercise other powers and perform other duties authorized by this constitution or by law.