Federal Lawyer Departures Boost State Attorney General Offices

The federal government has experienced a significant exodus of lawyers, leaving numerous agencies understaffed and enhancing the resources of state attorney general offices and advocacy groups. Since the beginning of 2025, over 10,000 lawyers have left their federal positions, greatly impacting the government’s capacity to pursue President Trump’s agenda.

By March 2026, about 20% of lawyers employed by the government at the end of 2024 had departed. This data stems from a New York Times analysis of federal employment records. The turnover, attributed to retirements, resignations, and policy objections, has altered the perception of the federal government as a prime destination for those seeking public service roles.

Many departing lawyers are now joining Democratic state attorney general offices and nonprofit organizations. These entities often legally challenge the Trump administration’s policies, which bolsters the opposition’s legal expertise. Colorado’s Attorney General, Phil Weiser, has successfully recruited 22 former federal lawyers. He highlights the dissatisfaction within the federal government, noting that many attorneys prefer to work in organizations that are perceived to operate with integrity.

The impact of this shift is notable in law schools. Aspiring lawyers, who once regarded federal employment as a prestigious opportunity, now consider alternative career paths. Faculty and students report a growing reluctance to join the federal government under the current administration.

“There’s all this awareness that people in the federal government are dissatisfied, are angry, are frustrated, and want no part of it,” said Phil Weiser, Colorado’s attorney general.

The table below illustrates lawyer attrition rates in various federal agencies between December 2024 and March 2026:

• Education: From 645 to 303 lawyers, a 53% decrease.
• Housing: From 448 to 271 lawyers, a 40% decrease.
• Interior: From 542 to 394 lawyers, a 27% decrease.
• Labor: From 609 to 446 lawyers, a 27% decrease.
• Energy: From 721 to 530 lawyers, a 26% decrease.
• Agriculture: From 231 to 170 lawyers, a 26% decrease.
• Health: From 1,147 to 866 lawyers, a 24% decrease.
• Transportation: From 622 to 477 lawyers, a 23% decrease.
• Justice: From 12,975 to 10,310 lawyers, a 21% decrease.
• Veterans Affairs: From 1,935 to 1,640 lawyers, a 15% decrease.
• Defense: From 4,576 to 3,880 lawyers, a 15% decrease.

This shift in employment choices reflects broader concerns and discontent with the current administration among legal professionals.