U.S. Attorney's Office - Southern District of New York

For residents of New York City and the surrounding counties, understanding the various legal institutions that safeguard our communities is crucial. Among these, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York (SDNY) plays a pivotal and distinct role as the chief federal law enforcement agency within its jurisdiction. Unlike local district attorneys who handle state-level crimes, the SDNY is responsible for prosecuting violations of federal law and representing the interests of the United States government in both criminal and civil matters. This office is at the forefront of some of the most significant legal battles, addressing issues that impact national security, economic stability, and the civil rights of all New Yorkers.

The SDNY has a long and storied history, earning a reputation for its rigorous pursuit of justice and its impact on the national legal landscape. Often referred to as the "Sovereign District of New York," its influence extends far beyond its geographic boundaries, particularly given its jurisdiction over Manhattan, a global financial hub. While the nature of their work means direct interaction with the public is often in the context of investigations, prosecutions, or victim services, their mission is fundamentally about upholding the rule of law and ensuring safety and fairness for everyone. Understanding the functions and responsibilities of the U.S. Attorney's Office is essential for any New Yorker who wishes to be informed about the federal legal framework that underpins our society. This overview aims to shed light on this critical institution, outlining its location, key services, and its indispensable role in our daily lives.

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York is centrally located in Lower Manhattan, a highly accessible area for those in New York City. Their main office is situated at 1 Saint Andrews Plaza, New York, NY 10007, USA. This address places the office in the heart of the civic center, adjacent to numerous federal and state courthouses, making it a pivotal point for legal proceedings in the district.

The location offers excellent accessibility through various modes of transportation. For those relying on public transit, the office is within close walking distance of several major subway stations. The J, Z, 4, 5, 6, N, R, W, and A, C, E subway lines all have stations nearby, including the Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall, Fulton Street, and Chambers Street stops. This extensive subway network ensures that individuals from all five boroughs and beyond can conveniently reach the office. Numerous bus routes also serve the Lower Manhattan area, providing additional public transportation options. For those driving, while street parking can be extremely limited in this dense urban environment, there are several commercial parking garages available in the surrounding blocks, though they may incur a fee. The proximity to key transportation hubs underscores the office's commitment to being reachable by the public, facilitating interactions when necessary for legal matters, whether for witnesses, victims, or other official business.

Services Offered:

• Prosecuting violations of federal laws within the Southern District of New York, covering a wide array of criminal conduct.
• Representing the United States government and its agencies in civil litigation, both as plaintiffs and defendants.
• Investigating and prosecuting cases involving white collar crime, including financial fraud, securities fraud, and public corruption.
• Addressing national security threats, including domestic terrorism and cybercrime.
• Combating organized crime and gang violence.
• Prosecuting international narcotics trafficking.
• Enforcing civil rights and investigating violations in this area.
• Providing victim and witness services for federal crime victims, including notification of case stages, information on compensation, and referrals to support agencies.
• Offering witness services, including arrangements for travel and lodging for government witnesses.
• Engaging in community outreach programs to foster public understanding and cooperation.
• Operating a Whistleblower Program for reporting federal misconduct.
• Responding to complaints regarding alleged failures of Department of Justice employees to provide crime victim rights.

Features / Highlights:

• Serves as the chief federal law enforcement office for Manhattan, the Bronx, and the counties of Westchester, Putnam, Rockland, Orange, Dutchess, and Sullivan.
• Has a historical reputation as one of the nation's premier legal institutions, handling groundbreaking and historic cases.
• Employs approximately 220 Assistant U.S. Attorneys (AUSAs) and a substantial support staff.
• Organized into specialized Criminal and Civil Divisions, along with a White Plains Division.
• Known for being exceptionally aggressive in the pursuit of criminals, earning the moniker "Sheriff of Wall Street" due to its jurisdiction over the financial center.
• Prioritizes prosecution in areas such as national security, human trafficking, sexual exploitation of minors, and state-sponsored cybercrime.
• Actively involved in significant civil cases, including those in environmental, healthcare, immigration, and bankruptcy areas.
• Provides comprehensive support to victims and witnesses of federal crimes, ensuring their rights are protected.
• Committed to upholding the rule of law, keeping communities safe, and protecting civil rights.
• Offers programs such as Reentry Program and Conviction Integrity Committee, reflecting a commitment to justice reform and community engagement.

As a governmental entity, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York does not offer traditional "promotions" or "special offers" in the way a private business might. Their services are inherent to their public mission of upholding federal law. However, for New Yorkers seeking assistance or information, the office provides critical resources that can be considered valuable "offers" in a civic sense. They offer detailed information and support through their Victim & Witness Services program, ensuring that those affected by federal crimes are informed of their rights and connected with necessary aid.

Furthermore, the office provides avenues for reporting crimes and potential federal misconduct through their main contact line and Whistleblower Program. While these are not promotional deals, they represent essential access points for the public to engage with federal law enforcement and contribute to public safety. For individuals who believe their rights as crime victims have not been met by a Department of Justice employee, the office also provides a clear complaint process. These resources are foundational to the SDNY's commitment to public service and justice for the community.

Contact Information:

Address: 1 Saint Andrews Plaza, New York, NY 10007, USA

Phone: (212) 637-2200

Mobile Phone: +1 212-637-2200

For residents of New York and the surrounding counties, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York is a critically important institution, making it highly suitable for locals to understand its functions. While it is not a "lawyer" in the sense of providing personal legal representation to individuals, its role as the chief federal law enforcement agency directly impacts the safety, security, and legal landscape of our communities. Its central location in Lower Manhattan, easily accessible by numerous subway lines and bus routes, ensures that it is within reach for any New Yorker who needs to engage with federal law enforcement, whether to report a crime, serve as a witness, or seek assistance through their victim services.

The office's broad mandate means it addresses issues that directly affect the daily lives and long-term well-being of New Yorkers, from combating complex financial fraud that can impact the economy to prosecuting violent crimes and upholding civil rights. Its dedication to national security and tackling issues like cybercrime means it acts as a vigilant guardian against threats that extend far beyond local boundaries. The fact that it offers robust Victim & Witness Services provides an essential layer of support for those who have been affected by federal crimes, ensuring they are informed and assisted. By focusing on prosecuting violations of federal law and representing the interests of the United States, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York plays an indispensable role in maintaining justice and order, thereby contributing to the overall quality of life and security for every New Yorker. Understanding its functions is empowering, as it allows locals to grasp the federal legal framework that protects and serves our vibrant metropolitan area.