Frequently Asked Questions

CRS is a separate unit within DOJ’s Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys. For over 60 years, CRS’s focus has been to promote peace by assisting communities experiencing conflict and violence. Guided by federal laws establishing jurisdictions, CRS focuses on restoring peaceful relations among communities by helping them to overcome differences and build the skills needed to prevent future disputes. CRS often responds to communities shaken by mass violence, civil disorder, and other critical incidents and offers neutral and impartial conciliation through a variety of services (i.e., mediation, facilitated dialogues, training, and consultation). CRS is not an investigatory or prosecutorial agency and does not have any law enforcement authority. All CRS services are confidential and provided on a voluntary basis, free of charge to the communities.

To accomplish its mission, CRS provides a variety services (i.e., facilitated dialogue, mediation, training, and consultation). These services help communities enhance their ability to alleviate tension, resolve disputes, and prevent future conflicts more effectively. CRS’s services provide the community a place to discuss and confront issues underlying the conflict and tensions within their community.

CRS's services can be provided, as requested. In each incident, CRS first assesses the situation by determining what tensions or issues may be present in a community. After gaining an in-depth understanding of the situation, and establishing whether CRS has jurisdiction, CRS works with the parties to determine the actions or services necessary.

CRS works in all 50 states and United States territories. It assists communities large, small, rural, suburban, and urban. Much of CRS’s work stems from requests by local law enforcement, community leaders, school administrators, civil rights organizations, religious and tribal leaders, government officials, and other local and state authorities.

All CRS services are confidential and provided free of charge to the communities that voluntarily request or accept CRS’s assistance. CRS is not an investigatory or prosecutorial agency and has no law enforcement authority. CRS works with all parties to develop solutions to conflict and serves as a neutral, impartial party.

Typically, local officials, community leaders, and/or any community member can request CRS’s services by contacting CRS by emailing: USAEO.AskCRS@usdoj.gov or calling 202-252-5550. On its own volition, CRS may also reach out to communities in conflict and offer services; however, communities may decline CRS's services at any time.