The Office advises the Presidency and other branches of the Federal Government on matters referred to it under the law. Each opinion is prepared so that public action stays within the Constitution and applicable legislation. Binding legal opinions are issued on questions referred by the Presidency and by government members. The service covers mandate, procedure, and the lawful exercise of public power. Advice is given to government institutions, not to private parties.
The Office represents the Federal Government and its agencies before the courts. Counsel protect the rights, property, and public interest of the State in disputes that reach litigation. Representation covers proceedings in which a government institution is a party. The Office works with the agency concerned so that the defence reflects the facts and the applicable law.
The Office prepares and reviews contracts issued by government, whether with individuals, companies, or other institutions. Review checks legal capacity, obligations, and compliance with public financial rules. The aim is a clear, lawful instrument before the government is bound. Agencies may refer a draft contract for examination before signature.
The Office prepares and reviews agreements to which the government is a party, domestic or international, before they are signed. Counsel examine legal effect and consistency with Somali law. Settlement agreements arising from lawsuits are prepared in consultation with the relevant agency. The Office advises on the legal text; it does not set government policy.
The Office prepares or advises on draft legislation submitted for parliamentary approval. Counsel also answer legal questions from the Council of Ministers when a draft is discussed before it is sent to Parliament. The work supports clear, consistent bills and regulations. Drafting is done for government, in the national interest.
The Office mediates legal disputes between government members and issues binding advisory opinions. It also examines disputes between government agencies over government land through investigation, rather than court proceedings, where the law allows. The purpose is a lawful settlement inside government. Where litigation is required, the matter may proceed as government defence.
The Office compiles and publishes the Official Bulletin, the public record of laws and official acts of the Federal Government. Issues are organised so that legislation, decrees, and related notices can be found. The portal catalogue reflects what has been published. Publication is a public record, not legal advice.
The Office is the national legal archive of the Federal Government. It keeps legislation, contracts, policies, and other legal records of the State. Some records are published. Other records remain confidential and are held for government use.
The Office conducts research on national law and on international rules that affect the Federal Government, including instruments of international organisations. Research supports advisory work, drafting, and representation. Findings are prepared for government use. This is not a public legal clinic.
The Office trains government lawyers and other staff of public institutions in the law that governs their work. Courses strengthen advisory, drafting, and courtroom skills inside government. Training is organised for agencies. Dates and programmes are announced when a course is open.