The U.S. Department of Justice has dropped its rule requiring new federal prosecutors to have at least one year of legal experience, citing urgent hiring needs as it struggles to fill positions. The change, which will remain in place until 2027, is part of a broader effort to recruit attorneys who align with the department’s current direction.

Reports indicate a significant decline in staffing, with thousands of employees leaving since the start of Donald Trump’s second term. This turnover has opened opportunities for private firms and other organizations to hire former DOJ lawyers, while applications to the department have also dropped sharply, according to legal experts like William Treanor.

DOJ leadership says the move aims to support “young and passionate prosecutors,” though critics argue the shift reflects broader political divisions in the legal field.

Meanwhile, Attorney General Pam Bondi has reportedly moved to secure military housing near Washington, D.C., following threats linked to organized crime and backlash over high-profile investigations.