What the U.S. Marshals Service handles

The U.S. Marshals Service is a federal law enforcement agency that operates under the Department of Justice. Unlike local police or the FBI, the Marshals focus on specific federal tasks: they apprehend fugitives wanted on federal charges, manage federal prisoners during transport and court appearances, protect federal judges and witnesses, and enforce court orders issued by federal judges.

If you have a direct interaction with the Marshals, it is usually because you are involved in a federal case — either as a defendant, witness, or someone affected by a court order. You may also encounter them if you report information about a federal fugitive or need protection related to federal court proceedings.

Key Takeaways

  • The U.S. Marshals Service enforces federal court orders, apprehends federal fugitives, and protects federal judges and witnesses in federal cases.
  • Each federal judicial district has its own Marshals office, and you can find the correct office by identifying which federal court has jurisdiction over your situation.
  • To report a federal fugitive or provide information about a federal crime, you can contact your local Marshals office or call the tip line at 1-800-336-0102.
  • If you need protection as a witness in a federal case, your attorney or the prosecutor handling the case will coordinate with the Marshals on your behalf.
  • The Marshals Service maintains a public website listing all district offices with phone numbers and addresses organized by state.

How to find your local U.S. Marshals office

The United States is divided into 94 federal judicial districts, and each district has its own U.S. Marshals office. To find the correct office, you need to know which federal court has jurisdiction over your situation — this depends on where the case is filed or where the federal crime occurred.

The official U.S. Marshals Service website (usmarshals.gov) lists all district offices by state. You can search by state name to find the office serving your area, along with the phone number and mailing address. If you are unsure which district covers your location, the website's office locator tool can help you narrow it down by county or city.

Each district office has a main number you can call during business hours. Some offices also have a duty officer available outside regular hours for emergencies related to federal court proceedings.

Reporting information about a federal fugitive

If you have information about someone wanted on federal charges, you can report it to the U.S. Marshals Service through multiple channels. The most direct method is calling the tip line at 1-800-336-0102, which operates 24 hours a day. You can provide information anonymously through this line.

You can also contact your local district office directly during business hours. The Marshals Service maintains a public "Most Wanted" list on their website showing fugitives they are actively seeking; if you recognize someone on that list, the tip line is the fastest way to report it.

When you call with information, have as many details as possible ready: the person's name (or description if you do not know their name), last known location, physical description, and any information about where they might be hiding or who they might contact.

Witness protection and safety in federal cases

The U.S. Marshals Service runs the Witness Security Program, which provides protection and relocation for witnesses in federal cases who face serious danger because of their testimony. However, you cannot request this protection directly — it must be authorized by the federal prosecutor or judge handling the case.

If you are a witness in a federal case and believe you need protection, tell your attorney or the prosecutor when ready. They will evaluate your situation and petition the court for protection if warranted. The Marshals Service will then work with the court and the prosecutor to arrange whatever level of protection is necessary, which may range from increased security during court appearances to temporary relocation.

Enforcing federal court orders

Federal judges issue orders in civil and criminal cases — orders to appear in court, orders to surrender property, orders related to custody or support, or orders to comply with other court directives. The U.S. Marshals Service is responsible for enforcing these orders when a person or organization fails to comply.

If you are the subject of a federal court order and have questions about what it requires, your attorney should explain it to you. If you cannot comply with an order, you must tell the court in writing before the important date, not straightforward ignore it. The Marshals Service can be sent to enforce the order if you do not comply, which may result in arrest or other legal consequences.

Prisoner transport and federal custody

The U.S. Marshals Service transports federal prisoners between facilities, to and from court appearances, and to other locations as ordered by the court. If you or a family member is in federal custody, the Marshals Service is often the agency responsible for moving that person.

If you need information about a federal prisoner's location or transport schedule, contact the district office serving the area where the prisoner is being held or where they will appear in court. You will need the prisoner's name and case number. Some information about prisoner movements may be restricted for security reasons, but the office can tell you whether a person is in federal custody and direct you to the correct facility.

Protecting federal judges and court facilities

The U.S. Marshals Service provides security for federal judges, federal courthouses, and federal court proceedings. This includes screening people who enter courthouses, protecting judges outside the courthouse, and responding to threats against the federal judiciary.

If you are attending a federal court hearing, expect security screening similar to airport security. If you have a weapon or prohibited item, you will not be allowed to bring it into the courthouse. If you have a legitimate reason to carry something that might be questioned, contact the courthouse in advance to ask about their specific policies.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I report a federal fugitive?

Call the U.S. Marshals Service tip line at 1-800-336-0102, available 24 hours a day. You can remain anonymous. Have as much detail as possible ready: the person's name or description, last known location, and any information about where they might be. You can also contact your local district office during business hours.

What is the difference between the U.S. Marshals and the FBI?

The Marshals focus on enforcing federal court orders, apprehending federal fugitives, protecting judges and witnesses, and managing federal prisoners. The FBI investigates federal crimes. In some situations both agencies work together, but they have different responsibilities and jurisdictions.

Can I request witness protection if I am testifying in a federal case?

You cannot request it directly. The federal prosecutor or judge in your case must authorize it based on the level of danger you face. Tell your attorney or the prosecutor if you believe you need protection, and they will petition the court on your behalf.

How do I find out where a federal prisoner is being held?

Contact the U.S. Marshals district office serving the area where the prisoner is or will appear in court. Have the person's name and case number ready. Some information about prisoner locations may be restricted for security reasons, but the office can confirm whether someone is in federal custody.

What should I do if I receive a federal court order?

Read it carefully and follow all instructions by the important date stated. If you do not understand it, ask your attorney. If you cannot comply, contact the court in writing before the important date to explain why. The U.S. Marshals Service enforces these orders, and ignoring one can result in arrest or other legal consequences.