New Hampshire Department of Justice

Overview

Office of the Attorney General

The New Hampshire Department of Justice, led by the Attorney General, serves as the state’s chief law enforcement agency and legal counsel. Located at 1 Granite Place South in Concord, the department is responsible for a broad spectrum of legal duties, ranging from prosecuting major crimes to protecting consumers from fraud. The Attorney General acts as the primary legal advisor to the Governor, the Executive Council, and all state agencies, ensuring that the government operates within the bounds of the law. The department is organized into several key bureaus, including the Criminal Justice Bureau, which handles homicides, drug prosecutions, and cold cases, and the Civil Law Bureau, which represents the state in civil litigation.

Public Protection: Investigates and prosecutes serious crimes, including drug trafficking, elder abuse, and financial exploitation.
Consumer Protection: The Consumer Protection and Antitrust Bureau mediates complaints between buyers and sellers and takes legal action against unfair business practices.
Charitable Trusts: Oversees and regulates charitable organizations and fundraising activities to ensure funds are used for their intended purposes.
Civil Rights and Public Integrity: Dedicated units work to protect the civil rights of residents and ensure integrity within public office.

Legal Services and Administration

Beyond its enforcement powers, the Department of Justice plays a pivotal role in the administration of state government. The Division of Legal Counsel provides guidance on complex legal issues, including election laws and administrative rules. The department also includes the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner and the Grants Management Unit, which administers federal funds for victim assistance and law enforcement programs. Visitors to the Granite Place facility should be prepared for security protocols, as this is a high-level government law enforcement office.