Office of the Solicitor General

About the Office

The Office of the Solicitor-General is established under section 10 of the Attorney-General's Act 1989. The Solicitor General is appointed by the Judicial and Legal Services Commission (JLSC). This esteemed office plays a pivotal role in the legal framework of Papua New Guinea, primarily focusing on State advocacy and representation.

Our Vision

To be recognized as the premier provider of competent, ethical, and efficient legal representation and advocacy services to the State of Papua New Guinea and its instrumentalities, upholding the highest standards of legal practice.

Our Mission

To effectively represent the State in all courts, tribunals, and alternative dispute resolution forums.
To provide high-quality legal opinions on matters pertaining to advocacy and litigation.
To actively contribute to the development of legal precedent and jurisprudence in Papua New Guinea.
To steadfastly uphold the rule of law and champion the public interest in all legal undertakings.

Image representing the Office of the Solicitor General

Our Core Functions

Under section 13 of the Attorney General's (Amendment) Act 1989, the primary functions of the Solicitor General are clearly defined. The Office diligently performs these and other related advocacy duties:

State Advocacy: To appear as advocate for the State before all levels of courts (Supreme, National, District) and specialized tribunals, unless otherwise instructed by the Attorney General.
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): To provide legal representation as advocate in all court-annexed alternative dispute resolution matters for and on behalf of the State.
Litigation Advice: Offering expert legal opinions and strategic advice to government departments and State agencies on matters of potential or ongoing litigation.
Appellate Representation: Managing and conducting appeals on behalf of the State in higher courts.
Constitutional Matters: Handling constitutional references and advising on matters of constitutional significance requiring court interpretation.
International Representation: Representing the State's interests in international tribunals and arbitrations, as required.
Consistent Advocacy Functions: To perform any other functions consistent with the Solicitor General's advocacy role, ensuring robust legal defense and prosecution of State interests.

The Solicitor General

Key Focus Areas & Achievements

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Landmark Case Representation

Highlighting significant cases where the OSG has successfully represented the State's interests. (Placeholder)

Advocacy Development

Initiatives focused on enhancing the advocacy skills within the State's legal teams. (Placeholder)

Contribution to Legal Policy

Input from the OSG on legislative amendments and legal policy development. (Placeholder)

Contact the Office of the Solicitor General

For enquiries specifically directed to the Office of the Solicitor General, please use the contact details provided below. For general departmental matters, kindly refer to the main DJAG contact information.

Office of the Solicitor General
Department of Justice & Attorney General
Level [Insert Level], [Insert Building Name/Location if different]
Waigani Drive, Port Moresby
National Capital District, Papua New Guinea

Phone: +675 XXXX XXXX (Specific OSG Line)
Email: solicitorgeneral@justice.gov.pg
Postal Address: P.O. Box 591, Waigani, NCD

Please note: The Office of the Solicitor General primarily deals with legal matters involving the State and does not provide legal advice to private individuals.