The Legal department was called upon by the AKC Board and staff to review, draft, and negotiate contracts-including licensing and media agreements-manage and oversee litigation, provide legal counsel and corporate advice, monitor compliance issues, and prosecute charges filed under the AKC internal disciplinary system. The department is responsible for procuring, implementing, and administering the AKC internal property and casualty insurance program and the club insurance program. The Compliance Operations division reports to the Legal department.

The department aggressively acts in instances when the AKC name and trademarks are used without proper authorization. Likewise, it pursues the unauthorized use of AKC copyrighted material.