A written advisory opinion from the Ethics Commission is an interpretation of the law as it applies to a set of facts provided in writing by the requester. The purpose of an advisory opinion is to provide guidance in writing to an official or employee before the official or employee engages in an action that may be prohibited by the law. Any person who is subject to the law can request an opinion interpreting the law as it applies to himself or herself.

If a person receives a written opinion from the Commission, and acts in compliance with the opinion, the opinion provides the person with immunity from criminal prosecution, civil action, or removal from office. A public official or employee who fails to follow an opinion of the Commission is subject to potential civil and criminal action, and removal from office, for violating the Ethics Law.