Legal Adviser

(a) Establishment There is authorized to be in the Department a Legal Adviser who shall be responsible— (1) to the Secretary and the Deputy Secretary for providing advice on all legal issues with respect to the mission of the Department, including but not limited to formulating international law; and (2) for such other related duties as the Secretary may from time to time designate. (b) Responsibilities In addition to the responsibilities described in subsection (a), the Legal Adviser shall maintain continuous observation and coordination of all matters pertaining to legal implications of the Department’s intentions and activities in the conduct of foreign policy, including, as appropriate— (1) participating in international negotiations and represent the United States in international conferences related to legal issues, and serve as a member of delegation and legal advisor to treaty implementation commissions; (2) assisting the Department regarding legal matters at interagency meetings, congressional hearings, and meetings of private organizations; and (3) provide consultation on behalf of the Department for domestic litigation that involves the Department or its interests, coordinating with other Departments when necessary, and assisting the Department of Justice relating to relevant litigation. (c) Office of Legal Adviser (1) Establishment The Secretary shall establish the Office of the Legal Adviser, which shall perform such functions related to representing and advising the Secretary and Department-wide missions on all legal policy issues in connection with United States foreign policy and the work of the Department, as the Secretary may prescribe. (2) Head The Legal Adviser shall be the head of the Office of the Legal Adviser.