Encyclopedia · Organization
United States Department of Justice
U.S. federal executive department responsible for law enforcement and litigation
Organization details
- Established
- June 1870
- Earlier office
- Attorney General, established 1789
- Head
- Attorney General
- Core mission
- Law enforcement, legal representation and civil-rights protection
The United States Department of Justice is the federal executive department responsible for law enforcement, federal litigation and legal advice to the government.
Origins and functions
Congress created the office of Attorney General in 1789 and established the Department of Justice in 1870. The department represents the United States in litigation, provides legal advice to federal agencies, prosecutes federal crimes and enforces certain civil-rights laws.
Institutional distinction
DOJ legal representation or a federal investigation is not evidence that the department decides election outcomes. Formal enforcement powers are distinct from the Election Integrity Network, private campaign data vendors and DHS’s SAVE verification service.
References
Research compiled through November 12, 2026. Sources and historical roles are dated where known.