The functions and duties of the legal division of the State Department of Transportation shall, as all other assistant attorneys general, include the following:
(1) To advise the Director of Transportation and other personnel of the State Department of Transportation on the legal aspects of all State Department of Transportation business;
(2) To examine and advise as to the legality of all contracts and agreements entered into by the State Department of Transportation or the Director of Transportation;
(3) To take all legal action necessary or desirable in the acquisition of rights-of-way for state and interstate highways;
(4) To appear in court as attorney for the State of Alabama and the State Department of Transportation in the acquisition of rights-of-way for state and interstate highways; and
(5) To represent the State Department of Transportation and the Director of Transportation in all legal proceedings to which the State Department of Transportation or the Director of Transportation is a party.