DOJ Drops Experience Requirement for New Prosecutors

"This suspension is in effect until February 28, 2027, and was implemented due to an exigent hiring need for attorneys across the Department. Under the leadership of Attorney General Bondi and Deputy Attorney General Blanche, this Department of Justice is proud to empower young and passionate prosecutors and offer attorneys at every level the opportunity to invest their talents into keeping their communities safe."

"According to the American Bar Association, the number of attorneys working across the DOJ has plummeted from approximately 10,000 in 2024. Though exact numbers are not currently publicly available, 5,500 employees—not all of whom are attorneys—have either been fired, resigned, or retired from the DOJ since the start of President Donald Trump's second administration."

"William Treanor, the former dean of Georgetown University Law Center, told the American Bar Association that though it has historically been the case that the Department of Justice is one of the most attractive places for our Georgetown graduating class, that is no longer the case."

The Justice Department has suspended its policy requiring new federal prosecutors to have at least one year of legal experience, citing urgent hiring needs. This change follows significant personnel losses, with approximately 5,500 DOJ employees—not all attorneys—departing since the start of President Trump's second administration. The American Bar Association reports attorney numbers have dropped from roughly 10,000 in 2024. The exodus has benefited private firms, political campaigns, and local prosecutors' offices recruiting former DOJ prosecutors. The suspension remains in effect until February 28, 2027. DOJ leadership frames the policy as empowering young prosecutors, though the move reflects broader institutional challenges in retaining legal talent.

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