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Significantly, local government attorneys can take the initiative to investigate these issues quickly outside of the context of litigation discovery, or even when no litigation is pending at all . Through their work, local government attorneys may learn about problems that have not received any public attention . Early intervention can help to prevent long-term, systemic failures that are particularly difficult to solve . By being proactive, local government attorneys can help to address problems more quickly than might otherwise occur through the litigation process . Also, when litigation is pending, taking quick action to address the issues raised by the litigation can help lead to an effective remedy that has the support of local officials as well as plaintiffs and the Court .
III. Conclusion
Through providing effective counsel to local officials, local government attorneys can help to ensure that local policies comply with the law, to anticipate potential legal issues that could result from new initiatives, and to solve legal problems that may come to their attention . They can also help to develop sustainable policies that support the rights and interests of local constituents . In summary, local government attorneys’ actions can benefit members of the public whose needs and rights may be impacted by government action or inaction .
That is, local government attorneys can promote justice – from inside government . •
Impact: Collected Essays on Expanding Access to Justice