New York State Department of Law

The Office of the New York Attorney General, led by Attorney General Letitia James, serves as the chief lawyer and law enforcement officer for the state of New York. The office works to protect New Yorkers, combat crime, ensure public safety, and defend civil rights. It enforces laws to safeguard consumers, tenants, patients, workers, investors, and charitable donors, while also promoting economic and social justice.

The Attorney General's office conducts statewide civil and criminal investigations, supports public health strategies, and preserves the state's environment. It advises the executive branch of state government and defends actions on behalf of the state. The office operates independently of the Governor, but may undertake specific criminal investigations and prosecutions upon request. Its authority extends to the activities of the Organized Crime Task Force and the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit.

With over 1,700 staff, including more than 700 assistant attorneys general, the office maintains over two dozen locations across New York state. Regional offices play a crucial role in addressing social and economic justice matters, investigating and taking action to protect various rights, and responding to community complaints. The office also includes specialized units for Extreme Risk Protection Orders and Cannabis Enforcement.

Practice areas include:

• Civil Rights
• Consumer Frauds and Protection
• Tenants' Rights and Housing Protection
• Voting Rights
• Criminal Enforcement and Financial Crimes
• Environmental Protection
• Health Care
• Labor and Workers' Rights
• Immigration Law
• Real Estate Law
• Antitrust
• Investor Protection
• Taxpayer Protection
• Charities Law