New Jersey Attorney General: What You Need To Know In 2025

The New Jersey Attorney General plays a central role in shaping the state’s legal and policy landscape. Whether you're a resident, a business owner, or just someone interested in the inner workings of state law enforcement, understanding the responsibilities and influence of this office is important. The Attorney General serves as the chief legal officer of New Jersey, overseeing everything from consumer protection to criminal prosecutions, and even representing the state in legal matters. So, whether it's a high-profile case or a quiet policy change, the New Jersey Attorney General’s office affects the lives of millions.

This position isn’t just about courtroom drama or issuing press releases. It’s about public trust, legal accountability, and the day-to-day enforcement of laws that keep the state running smoothly. From tackling cybercrime to standing up for residents facing predatory lending, the Attorney General’s work is far-reaching. As we move into 2025, there are fresh challenges and new priorities emerging that make this a particularly interesting time to follow the office’s activities.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the role of the New Jersey Attorney General, recent developments, and why it matters to you. Whether you're keeping up with the news or navigating a legal situation, this guide will help you understand how the Attorney General impacts your life and what to expect in the months ahead.

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Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Who Is the Current New Jersey Attorney General?
• Duties and Responsibilities of the Office
• Recent Developments and Key Cases in 2025
• How to Contact the Office or File a Complaint
• Frequently Asked Questions

Who Is the Current New Jersey Attorney General?

As of early 2025, the New Jersey Attorney General is Matthew J. Platkin. He was appointed by Governor Phil Murphy in 2022 after serving as the state’s acting Attorney General for several months. Platkin brings a background in public service and legal advocacy, having previously worked in both government and nonprofit sectors. His leadership has been marked by a focus on civil rights, environmental justice, and consumer protection.

Here’s a quick snapshot of his profile:

Duties and Responsibilities of the Office

The New Jersey Attorney General isn’t just a figurehead. This is a working legal office that touches many parts of daily life. From consumer fraud to criminal justice reform, the AG’s responsibilities are wide-ranging. Here’s a breakdown of some of the major areas where the office makes an impact:

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Legal Representation for the State

The Attorney General acts as the chief legal advisor to all state agencies and departments. That means if a state agency gets sued or needs legal guidance, the AG’s office steps in to help. It also represents the state in lawsuits, both in defending its policies and enforcing its rights.

Law Enforcement Oversight

The AG oversees the New Jersey Division of Criminal Justice, which handles investigations and prosecutions of organized crime, public corruption, and major drug trafficking. In recent years, there’s also been a stronger focus on police oversight and reform, especially in light of national conversations around law enforcement accountability.

Consumer Protection

One of the most direct ways the Attorney General impacts everyday people is through its consumer protection efforts. The office investigates scams, enforces data privacy laws, and helps residents who feel they’ve been wronged by businesses. If you’ve ever filed a complaint about a misleading business practice, it’s likely the AG’s office handled it.

Environmental and Public Health Advocacy

New Jersey has been at the forefront of environmental litigation, especially regarding pollution and corporate accountability. The AG’s office has sued companies for environmental violations and pushed for stronger climate protections. This work has grown in importance as climate change becomes a bigger concern for residents across the state.

Recent Developments and Key Cases in 2025

So far in 2025, the New Jersey Attorney General’s office has been involved in several high-profile issues that reflect the state’s evolving legal and social landscape. Here are a few of the most significant:

Cracking Down on Tech-Fueled Scams

With cybercrime on the rise, the AG’s office has ramped up its efforts to protect consumers from digital fraud. In early 2025, they announced a multi-state operation targeting fake online job listings and cryptocurrency scams. This initiative has already led to several arrests and the shutdown of several fraudulent websites.

Legal Battle Over Social Media Regulation

New Jersey joined a coalition of states suing major social media platforms over alleged harms to children’s mental health. The AG’s office has argued that these companies are not doing enough to protect young users from harmful content, and is pushing for stronger age verification and content moderation standards.

Environmental Enforcement Against Polluters

In a major move, the AG filed lawsuits against several industrial companies for violating air and water quality standards. These cases are part of a broader push to hold corporations accountable for environmental damage, especially in communities that have historically borne the brunt of pollution.

How to Contact the Office or File a Complaint

If you need to reach out to the New Jersey Attorney General’s office, there are a few ways to do it, depending on your issue:

• File a Consumer Complaint: You can submit a complaint online through the official website or call the Consumer Affairs hotline at 1-800-242-5846.
• Report Fraud or Scams: Use the online reporting form on the Division of Consumer Affairs page or contact the Office of Consumer Protection directly.
• Law Enforcement Inquiries: If you have information about criminal activity, you can contact the Division of Criminal Justice through their tips line or online portal.

Learn more about how to protect yourself from scams on our site, and get the latest updates on state law enforcement actions here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the New Jersey Attorney General Prosecute Individuals?

Yes, but typically through the Division of Criminal Justice. The AG has the authority to prosecute individuals for crimes like public corruption, organized crime, and major drug offenses. Local county prosecutors handle most criminal cases, but the AG steps in for statewide or particularly sensitive matters.

What’s the Difference Between the Attorney General and the U.S. Attorney?

The New Jersey Attorney General handles state-level legal matters, while the U.S. Attorney prosecutes federal crimes. The AG works under the state government, and the U.S. Attorney is part of the federal Department of Justice.

How Long Does the Attorney General Serve?

The New Jersey Attorney General is appointed by the Governor and serves at the Governor’s pleasure. While the term is technically four years, the officeholder can be reappointed or replaced at any time during the Governor’s term.