Legal Definitions - lucrative office

A lucrative office refers to a public position that provides substantial financial compensation or significant benefits. This term is often used in legal contexts, particularly concerning ethics laws, conflicts of interest, or constitutional provisions that may restrict individuals from holding multiple public offices, especially if those offices are well-compensated. The core idea is a public role that offers considerable financial gain to the holder.

• Example 1: A newly elected state attorney general receives an annual salary of $220,000, a comprehensive health insurance package, and a generous pension plan upon retirement.

  Explanation: This position is a "lucrative office" because the state attorney general holds a public office (a position of trust within the state government) and receives a very high salary and extensive benefits, making it financially advantageous for the individual holding the role.

• Example 2: A member of a county's public transit authority board, a part-time role requiring attendance at monthly meetings, receives an annual stipend of $30,000, along with reimbursement for all travel and expenses related to their duties.

  Explanation: Even though it's not a full-time job, the board membership qualifies as a "lucrative office" because it is a public position (part of the county government) that provides significant regular financial compensation (the $30,000 annual stipend) beyond simply covering costs, making it financially attractive.

• Example 3: A former mayor is appointed to lead a state-owned enterprise responsible for managing public lands. The position, which involves overseeing a large budget and staff, comes with an annual salary of $350,000, a company car, and a housing allowance.

  Explanation: This role is a "lucrative office" because the individual holds a public position (leading a state-owned entity) that offers substantial financial gain ($350,000 annual salary, car, and housing) and significant perks, clearly demonstrating its profitability to the officeholder.