What does the Department of Justice do?
The Department of Justice (DOJ, Justice Department) is an executive branch agency responsible for enforcing federal laws and ensuring public safety. Its functions include prosecuting criminal and civil cases, overseeing federal law enforcement agencies, managing federal prisons, upholding civil rights, and issuing justice-related grants. It was established in 1870.
$44B
0.6%
How much does the US Department of Justice spend?
The Department of Justice accounted for 0.6% of all federal spending in FY 2024.
Share of DOJ net spending compared to the top ten highest spending agencies in FY 2024
The Department of Justice’s federal spending in FY 2024 was higher than in FY 1980.
Yearly federal net spending by DOJ, adjusted for inflation (2024 dollars), FYs 1980–2024
The Department of Justice’s share of federal spending in FY 2024 was higher than in FY 1980.
Percentage of federal budget dedicated to DOJ, FYs 1980–2024
How did the Department of Justice spend its budget in 2024?
Federal government net spending isolated to DOJ, FY 2024
The Department of Justice's highest-spending division is the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
DOJ net spending by division, FY 2024
Who leads the Department of Justice?
The DOJ is headed by the attorney general, who is nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate, and then sworn into office. They are one of the 15 cabinet members who serve at the president’s discretion. This appointed position typically ends when the appointee resigns, is replaced, or when a new president assumes office and appoints their own cabinet, though some may serve temporarily during transitions between administrations.
The president also appoints a United States attorney to enforce federal law in the 94 federal districts.
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Methodology
USAFacts standardizes data, in areas such as time and demographics, to make it easier to understand and compare.
Page sources
USAFacts endeavors to share the most up-to-date information available. We sourced the data on this page directly from government agencies; however, the intervals at which agencies publish updated data vary.
Office of Management and Budget and US Department of the Treasury
Budget of the US Government and Monthly Treasury Statement