DOJ wants to shield its lawyers from outside scrutiny. Critics worry about oversight

Then-Attorney General Pam Bondi answers questions from the media at the U.S. Capitol on March 18, 2026. Bondi is one of several DOJ officials who’ve faced ethics complaints with state bar associations in recent years. Matt McClain/Getty Images

Matt McClain/Getty Images

The Justice Department wants to oversee the discipline of its attorneys — even as government lawyers face more questions from judges and watchdogs about their conduct.

A DOJ rule that would allow the attorney