0820 Department of Justice
Program Descriptions

40 - CRIMINAL LAW

The Criminal Law Program represents the state in all criminal matters before the Appellate and Supreme courts. The Criminal Law Program also fulfills the Attorney General's responsibilities of assisting district attorneys in cases for which they are disqualified, conducts criminal investigations and prosecutions of those engaged in illegal activities where local resources are inadequate to perform these functions, and defends state and federal habeas corpus matters. Additional responsibilities include enforcing the Political Reform Act, advising the Governor on extradition matters, investigating and prosecuting Medi-Cal provider fraud, investigating and prosecuting the abuse or neglect of elder and dependent adults residing in health care facilities, and investigating, prosecuting, and coordinating litigation involving white-collar crime, high-tech/computer crime, and financial crimes against the elderly. The Criminal Law program also includes the Crime and Violence Prevention Center, the Office of Native American Affairs, and the Office of Victim Services.