Division of Law

The Division of Law (DOL) was established on March 7, 1944, to serve as the primary legal counsel for the New Jersey state government. The Division acts as the sole legal advisor for all state officers, departments, boards, commissions, and instrumentalities. Its core functions involve providing legal advice to state departments and agencies, defending the state in civil litigation, and initiating civil lawsuits against individuals and entities that violate the law or harm New Jersey and its residents.

Staffed by nearly 500 attorneys, the Division of Law handles a wide range of legal matters, covering issues such as banking, child protection, corrections, education, environmental law, finance, health, insurance, taxation, and transportation. The Division is responsible for approximately 29,000 legal matters across federal and state trial and appellate courts, as well as administrative forums. This includes about 13,000 litigation matters in trial courts, 11,000 administrative cases, and 1,700 appeals before state and federal appellate courts.

The Division's work extends to protecting abused children, ensuring polluters cover cleanup costs, and defending the state against various claims. Its practice groups include Administrative, Affirmative Civil Enforcement, Appellate, Department of Children and Families, Environmental & Clean Energy, Financial Affairs & State Contracting, and Litigation. The Division is committed to ensuring meaningful access to government resources for individuals with limited English proficiency.