Office of the General Counsel Review Guide

A guide was published to: (1) define the GAO review process and the reviewer's role in that process; (2) suggest different approaches to common review tasks; and (3) improve the quality and timeliness of GAO decisions. It was suggested that the review process begin early, and the simultaneous assignment of cases to an attorney and a reviewer, or the assignment of particular attorneys to particular reviewers, was strongly endorsed. It was strongly suggested that the role of the first-line reviewer should be enhanced through opportunities to participate in case management, performance appraisals, and promotion recommendations. Reviewers should return drafts to attorneys for substantive revision and should communicate with attorneys regarding any changes made or requested. Finally, the cases of rotators and summer interns should be carefully selected and their drafts promptly reviewed.