United States Attorney's Office - District of New Jersey

US Attorney's Office Overview

The United States Attorney's Office (USAO) for the District of New Jersey maintains a significant operational branch in Trenton, located within the Clarkson S. Fisher Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse. As the chief federal law enforcement agency for the district, this office is responsible for the prosecution of federal criminal statutes and the representation of the United States government in civil litigation. The Trenton branch plays a pivotal role in the administration of justice for the central New Jersey region, handling high-profile cases ranging from public corruption and financial fraud to violent crime and drug trafficking. It operates under the direction of the U.S. Attorney, who is appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate.

Prosecutorial Divisions

The legal work at the Trenton office is primarily organized into three major divisions:

• Criminal Division: Investigates and prosecutes violations of federal law, including terrorism, cybercrime, narcotics conspiracies, healthcare fraud, and civil rights violations.
• Civil Division: Represents federal agencies and employees in civil lawsuits, defends the government against tort claims, and pursues affirmative civil enforcement for fraud against taxpayer-funded programs.
• Appeals Division: Handles appellate litigation before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, ensuring that convictions and legal rulings are upheld.

Security and Visiting

The office is situated in a highly secure federal courthouse. Access is strictly controlled and generally limited to individuals with official business, such as attorneys, witnesses, and those attending public court proceedings. All visitors must pass through airport-style security screening, including metal detectors and x-ray machines. Prohibited items include weapons of any kind, pocket knives, pepper spray, and often electronic devices (cameras and recording equipment are strictly banned without a court order). Cell phones may be required to be stored in lockers upon entry. Public transportation is the recommended method of travel, as the building is located just blocks from the Trenton Transit Center, and on-site parking is restricted to authorized personnel.