Overview

Matthew J. Platkin served as New Jersey attorney general from 2022 to 2026. Governor Phil Murphy nominated him in 2022, and the New Jersey Senate confirmed him on September 29, 2022. As attorney general, he was the state’s chief law enforcement officer and oversaw the Department of Law and Public Safety.

Before becoming attorney general, Platkin served as chief counsel to the governor of New Jersey. In that role, he advised the governor on legal and policy matters and played a role in shaping executive branch initiatives and legislative priorities.

Platkin’s legal career has also included work in private practice. His experience spans constitutional law, public policy, and legal advisory roles within state government.

Political Career

Attorney General, New Jersey (2022–2026)

Chief Counsel to the Governor of New Jersey (January 2018–October 2020)

Key Policy Areas

Criminal justice and law enforcement policy

Civil rights and constitutional law

Public safety and gun violence prevention

Consumer protection and regulatory enforcement

Government transparency and legal oversight

Notable Actions / Initiatives

Appointed attorney general of New Jersey in 2022.

Oversaw statewide law enforcement and legal operations through the Department of Law and Public Safety.

Participated in legal actions and policy initiatives related to civil rights and public safety.

Served as chief counsel to the governor prior to his appointment as attorney general.

Education

Stanford University, B.A.

Stanford Law School, J.D.

Personal

Birth date: Not publicly available

Residence: New Jersey

Sources

New Jersey Office of the Attorney General, archived Platkin biography: https://www.njoag.gov/about/meet-attorney-general-platkin/

New Jersey Office of the Attorney General, current Davenport biography: https://www.njoag.gov/about/meet-attorney-general-davenport

National Association of Attorneys General, former New Jersey AGs: https://www.naag.org/attorneys-general/past-attorneys-general/new-jersey-former-attorneys-general/

Reviewed October 28, 2026.