The U.S. Department of Justice has suspended a long-standing policy requiring newly hired federal prosecutors to have at least one year of legal experience, citing urgent staffing needs as it works to rebuild its ranks. According to a memo obtained by Bloomberg Law, the policy change—titled “Suspension of Attorney One Year Requirement”—will remain in effect through February 28, 2027. The department said the decision was driven by “exigent hiring needs” across multiple divisions.
The DOJ has experienced a notable decline in personnel in recent years. While updated official figures have not been released, reports indicate that approximately 5,500 employees—both attorneys and support staff—have left through resignations, retirements, or terminations since the beginning of President Donald Trump’s second term. Previously, the American Bar Association estimated the department employed about 10,000 attorneys in 2024. The departures have opened doors for outside employers. Private law firms, political groups, and local prosecutors’ offices have been actively recruiting former DOJ attorneys, according to reporting by CBS News. In a statement to Bloomberg, a DOJ spokesperson emphasized the department’s focus on attracting “young and passionate prosecutors,” adding that the agency aims to provide opportunities for attorneys at all career stages while continuing its public safety mission.
At the same time, some legal educators report a sharp drop in student interest. William Treanor, a professor at Georgetown Law and its former dean, said applications from graduates to the DOJ have fallen dramatically. He noted that what was once a common career path has, in his view, become far less appealing to many students. Observers offer differing explanations for the shift, pointing to political dynamics, evolving policy priorities, and broader ideological trends within legal education. Separately, Attorney General Pam Bondi has reportedly relocated to secure military housing near Washington, D.C., following a series of threats. According to The New York Times, the move reflects heightened security concerns tied to organized crime and public backlash over high-profile investigations, including matters related to Jeffrey Epstein. Bondi is among several senior officials who have reportedly moved to more secure accommodations as threats have increased.
