U.S. Customs and Border Protection – New York, NY

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) – Legal & Administrative Office

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) office located at 26 Federal Plaza, Room 258, in the Jacob K. Javits Federal Building, serves as a specialized administrative and legal hub for the agency’s New York operations. Unlike the passenger terminals at JFK Airport or the Custom House at One Bowling Green, this specific location houses the Office of the Associate Chief Counsel and other administrative support functions. It is primarily responsible for handling service of process, legal summonses, and specific trade compliance matters that require interaction with the federal legal system.

Legal and Trade Compliance

This office plays a critical role in the enforcement of customs laws by managing the legal paperwork associated with seizures, penalties, and fines. It accepts service of summonses and complaints for actions against the agency or its personnel in their official capacity. Attorneys and trade representatives often interact with this office regarding administrative rulings and litigation in the Court of International Trade. It is not a public service center for Global Entry interviews or general passport control issues; those services are located at separate facilities.

Building Security and Access

The office is situated within the Jacob K. Javits Federal Building, a major government complex in Lower Manhattan. Security is extremely high. All visitors are subject to airport-style screening, including X-ray of bags and metal detectors. Valid state or federal photo identification is mandatory for entry. Mobile phones and electronics may be subject to restrictions depending on the current building security level. Visitors to Room 258 typically need a specific appointment or official business reason to proceed past the lobby security checkpoint.

• Service of Process: Accepts legal summonses and subpoenas for CBP.
• Legal Affairs: Office of the Assistant Chief Counsel for trade and customs litigation.
• Location: Secure federal facility in the Civic Center complex.
• Limitations: Does not handle Global Entry enrollment or tourist visa processing.

For general inquiries, import/export questions, or traveler programs, the public is advised to contact the main CBP information line or visit the public-facing centers. This location is strictly for administrative and legal business operations.