March 8, 2010

Ms. Diane Boyer-Vine

California Legislative Counsel
State Capitol, Room 3021
Sacramento, CA 95814

Dear Ms. Boyer-Vine,

I am writing to inquire about the services provided to members of the Legislature by Legislative
Counsel.

Following a disturbing conversation with one of your employees, Jeff De Land, I am requesting
immediate answers to the following questions regarding your duties and services:

1. Whom does Legislative Counsel represent in court? Does Legislative Counsel represent
individual members of the Legislature?
2. Attorney Jeff De Land indicated to my attorney in a phone conversation on Friday,
March 5, 2010 that he was taking directions from the Joint Rules Committee. Does Mr.
De Land exclusively represent the Joint Rules Committee? Does Mr. De Land have the
authority to refuse me counsel?
3. Can legal opinions and representation in legal matters be coerced or controlled by a
legislative committee?
4. Does Legislative Counsel represent all members equally or are you required to take
direction from legislative leadership or a legislative committee?
5. On Friday, March 5, 2010 I was denied representation by Legislative Counsel. Please
give your legal justification for this denial.
6. Does Legislative Counsel have the authority to settle a case by amending a statute
enacted by the Legislature and signed by the Governor through stipulation?

The gravity of this issue and the obvious legal implications demands immediate attention from
your office. Therefore, I am requesting a written response no later than 9:00am, Tuesday,
March 9, 2010.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions. Thank you in advance for your
immediate response to this matter.

Sincerely,

ABEL MALDONADO
Senator, 15th District