28-17-18: Availability of legal counsel.

The agency shall ensure that:

A. adequate legal counsel is available and is able, without conflict of interest, to:

(1) provide advice and consultation needed to protect the health, safety, welfare and rights to residents; and

(2) assist the ombudsman and representatives of the office in the performance of the official duties of the ombudsman and representatives;

B. representation is provided to any representative of the office against whom suit or other legal action is brought or threatened to be brought in connection with the performance of the official duties of the ombudsman or such a representative; and

C. the office pursues administrative, legal and other appropriate remedies on behalf of residents.