Conference of Western Attorneys General (CWAG)

Overview

The Conference of Western Attorneys General (CWAG) is a bipartisan group, originally made up of 18 western states and territories. CWAG’s primary purpose is to provide the state Attorneys General with information that enhances their ability to serve as the top lawyers and chief law enforcement officers of their states.

Mission

CWAG’s primary focus in the U.S. is to provide a forum for member states and jurisdictions to cultivate knowledge, cooperate on concerns and coordinate actions which improve the quality of legal services available to members. CWAG meetings and conferences vary in focus, but always include important public policy discussions.  These gatherings are attended by Attorneys General and their staff.   CWAG’s communication and coordination of information and policy provide a vital bipartisan voice in discussions between federal and state officials.

Tribal Law

An important aspect of CWAG’s mission involves monitoring developments in American Indian law. This complex and developing body of law affects both public and private interests across the country. Primary among CWAG’s efforts is the American Indian Law Deskbook. First published in 1993, the American Indian Law Deskbook presents a comprehensive analysis of the various components of Indian law and was the first legal treatise of its kind to be updated annually. CWAG also sponsors regular conferences and Continuing Legal Education seminars on Indian law issues aimed at increasing cooperation between States and Tribes in matters of mutual sovereign concern.

Western Attorneys General Legal Action Committee (WAGLAC)

CWAG oversees and coordinates the Western Attorneys General Litigation Action Committee (WAGLAC), which consists of state Assistant Attorneys General involved in litigation related to the environment, natural resources, public lands, and Indian law. WAGLAC was formed over 30 years ago and meets three times per year to discuss the latest developments in these areas of the law. AGO staff gain important contacts throughout the country in these important fields.

WAGLAC Newsletter Archive

Explore past issues of the WAGLAC newsletter. This newsletter is available to member state offices only. Interested in having the latest and most relevant news to this committee delivered right to your inbox?

Email Legal Director Clive Strong for more information.