One of the core functions of the department is to protect the public interest. The Division of Public Interest Advocacy examines public policy and uses research, advocacy and legal intervention to advance reforms that will benefit New Jersey citizens.

PIA represents the public interest by fighting for the rights of New Jersey residents who have little power in the political process. We do this by:

• Conducting policy research to allow us to recommend how the state can best address complex social problems;
  
  
• Investigating and reporting on governmental policies or private-sector practices that are adverse to the public interest;
  
  
• Reaching out to constituencies to identify problems and chart an appropriate response;
  
  
• Collaborating with state, county and municipal agencies to ensure that the rights of the state's most vulnerable residents are being protected;
  
  
• Evaluating and drafting proposed legislation;
  
  
• Filing "friend of the court" briefs or bringing litigation in cases the Public Advocate identifies as necessary to promote or protect the public interest;
  
  
• Instituting proceedings before departments, agencies, commissions or boards;
  
  
• Engaging in negotiation, mediation or alternative dispute resolution;