Federal Judges Take Bold Stand Against Justice Department's Power Struggle

The United States Department of Justice (DOJ) is the principal federal agency responsible for enforcing federal laws, ensuring public safety, and protecting civil rights. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the DOJ operates under the leadership of the Attorney General, who serves as a key member of the President’s Cabinet. As of 2025, Pam Bondi holds this position, having taken office in February and quickly shaping the department’s priorities. Established in 1870 during President Ulysses S. Grant’s administration, the DOJ’s roots trace back to the creation of the Attorney General’s office in 1789. Over the years, it has grown into a vast organization with more than 115,000 employees and over 40 component agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and U.S. Marshals Service. The DOJ also houses specialized divisions for criminal, civil, antitrust, tax, civil rights, and national security matters, and oversees 94 U.S. Attorney offices nationwide. The DOJ’s mission centers on upholding the rule of law, safeguarding national security, and defending civil liberties. In 2025, the department has shifted its enforcement focus, prioritizing areas such as healthcare fraud, customs and tariff evasion, and corporate misconduct, especially involving foreign adversaries and financial gatekeepers. Recent policy changes have emphasized efficiency in investigations and reduced reliance on corporate compliance monitors, reflecting a broader effort to minimize regulatory burdens on businesses. Notably, the DOJ has also been tasked with reviewing past government conduct to address concerns about the “weaponization” of federal agencies, ensuring accountability and restoring public trust. For business and technology leaders, the DOJ’s evolving priorities—particularly in areas like cybersecurity, antitrust, and international trade—have significant implications for compliance, risk management, and corporate governance.

## Overview "New Jersey's Federal Judges" refers not to a formal organization, but to the collective of judges serving the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey, a federal trial court with jurisdiction over the entire state[1][7]. These judges are part of the federal judiciary, distinct from New Jersey’s state courts, and handle a wide array of cases under federal law[9]. ## Functions and Responsibilities The District of New Jersey’s federal judges preside over both civil and criminal cases, conducting bench and jury trials, plea hearings, sentencings, injunction hearings, and rulings on motions[9]. The court is divided into three vicinages—Newark, Trenton, and Camden—each with its own courthouse[3]. The federal bench includes both active and senior (retired) judges, as well as magistrate judges who handle initial proceedings, pretrial matters, and, with parties’ consent, some civil trials[9]. The court is known for its leadership in complex multidistrict litigation and intellectual property cases, reflecting the state’s significant business and technology sectors[8]. ## History and Evolution Established in 1789, the District of New Jersey has grown from a modest operation into a complex institution with approximately 40 senior, district, and magistrate judges, supported by hundreds of staff across its three locations[8]. The number of authorized judgeships has expanded over time in response to increasing caseloads, with the current structure reflecting decades of legislative adjustments[4]. The court’s history is marked by adaptation to the evolving demands of federal jurisprudence and the state’s unique legal environment[8]. ## Key Achievements and Current Status The District of New Jersey is recognized nationally for its efficiency and expertise in handling sophisticated litigation, particularly in business and technology-related disputes[8]. Its judges are appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, serving lifetime appointments under Article III of the U.S. Constitution[9