US Department of Justice – U.S. Attorney’s Office – Philadelphia, PA

Federal Legal Enforcement

The US Department of Justice (DOJ) in Philadelphia primarily operates through the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania (USAO-EDPA). This office serves as the chief federal law enforcement agency for the district, which encompasses nine counties in southeastern Pennsylvania. The U.S. Attorney, appointed by the President, leads a team of Assistant U.S. Attorneys (AUSAs) and support staff dedicated to upholding the rule of law, keeping communities safe, and protecting civil rights.

Divisions and Responsibilities

The office is organized into three main divisions, each handling distinct legal functions:

• Criminal Division: Responsible for prosecuting violations of federal criminal law, including terrorism, public corruption, organized crime, drug trafficking, and complex financial fraud.
• Civil Division: Represents the United States, its agencies, and employees in civil litigation. This includes defending the government against tort claims and pursuing affirmative civil enforcement in cases of healthcare fraud and civil rights violations.
• Administrative Division: Provides essential support services, including human resources, information technology, and financial management, ensuring the office operates efficiently.

Security and Access

As a Department of Justice facility, security is paramount. Visitors to any DOJ office, including the primary location at 615 Chestnut Street and associated administrative buildings like 701 Market Street, must undergo strict security screening. This includes passing through metal detectors and having bags x-rayed. Firearms, weapons, and explosives are strictly prohibited on the premises. Visitors are typically required to present valid government-issued photo identification upon entry. Access is generally limited to those with scheduled appointments, subpoenas, or official business.

Jurisdiction

The Eastern District of Pennsylvania is one of the nation’s largest districts, serving a population of nearly six million people. It covers Philadelphia, Berks, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Lancaster, Lehigh, Montgomery, and Northampton counties. The office works closely with federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, such as the FBI, DEA, and Philadelphia Police Department, to address violent crime and national security threats effectively.