NJ Office of the Attorney General

Overview of the Attorney General’s Office

The New Jersey Office of the Attorney General, leading the Department of Law and Public Safety, serves as the state’s chief law enforcement agency and legal advisor. Headquartered in the Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex at 25 Market Street, the office is directed by the Attorney General, who is appointed by the Governor. This department holds a unique and powerful position in New Jersey government, possessing broad authority over the state’s criminal justice system, including supervisory power over all 21 county prosecutors and local police departments. The mission of the office is comprehensive: protecting the safety and rights of New Jersey residents, prosecuting criminal offenders, defending the state in legal actions, and regulating a wide array of professional and commercial activities.

Key Divisions and Responsibilities

The Department consists of several major divisions that handle distinct aspects of law and public safety.

• Division of Criminal Justice: Responsible for investigating and prosecuting serious crimes, including corruption, gangs, financial fraud, and racketeering. It also sets statewide law enforcement policies.
• Division of Law: Acts as the “”law firm”” for the state government, providing legal representation to all state agencies, departments, and employees in civil matters.
• Division of Consumer Affairs: Protects the public from fraud and abuse, oversees professional licensing boards (such as medical and nursing boards), and regulates the sale of goods and services.
• Division on Civil Rights: Enforces the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination, investigating complaints regarding discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations.
• New Jersey State Police: The primary statewide law enforcement agency, which also falls under the Attorney General’s purview.

Location and Security

The Attorney General’s main office is located within the Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex, a secure government facility that also houses the State Supreme Court. Security is rigorous; all visitors must pass through metal detectors and x-ray screening for bags. Valid government-issued identification is required for entry. While the complex is the administrative hub, many specific services (such as filing consumer complaints or professional license applications) are best handled through the department’s extensive online portals or via mail, as walk-in access to senior officials is restricted to appointments.