As head of the New York State Department of Law, the Attorney General is both the “People's Lawyer” and the State's chief legal officer. As the “People's Lawyer,” the Attorney General serves as the guardian of the legal rights of the citizens of New York, its organizations and its natural resources. In his role as the State's chief legal counsel, the Attorney General not only advises the Executive branch of State government, but also defends actions and proceedings on behalf of the State.
The Attorney General serves all New Yorkers in numerous matters affecting their daily lives. The Attorney General's Office is charged with the statutory and common law powers to protect consumers and investors, charitable donors, the public health and environment, civil rights, and the rights of wage-earners and businesses across the State.
The Bureau of Consumer Frauds and Protection, part of the Economic Justice Division, prosecutes businesses and individuals engaged in fraudulent, misleading, deceptive or illegal trade practices.
In addition to litigating, the Bureau mediates thousands of complaints each year from individual consumers.
A large percentage of these complaints are resolved satisfactorily through the mediation process. As part of its mission, the Bureau provides information to consumers and seeks to ensure a fair and vigorous market place. The Bureau also drafts legislation and conducts studies and writes reports on emerging consumer problems and issues.
“Our nation owes a great debt to military service members, veterans, and their families. It's despicable that anyone would seek to take advantage of those who have sacrificed to ensure our safety and preserve our rights here at home,” said Attorney General Eric Schneiderman. “I am proud to say that I will do everything in my power to protect the brave men and women who have fought for our country by aggressively pursuing scam artists that target them, and by helping them to understand their legal rights.”
