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Civil Division

The Civil Division protects the interests of the United States by defending against and pursuing claims in cases involving the entire spectrum of civil matters. The Civil Division litigates on behalf of the United States in state or federal court, as well as works to resolve matters before suits are filed.

Affirmative Litigation

The Affirmative Civil Enforcement Unit enforces federal law and recovers debts, damages and penalties for the United States in a wide variety of contexts including fraud, tort, civil rights, and Controlled Substance Act violations.

Asset Forfeiture Unit

The Asset Forfeiture Unit is responsible for civil and criminal forfeiture of the assets used in, generated by, or facilitating criminal activity. The Assistant U.S. Attorney assigned to the Asset Forfeiture Unit institutes civil actions to obtain forfeiture of those assets and assist other federal prosecutors in obtaining forfeiture as part of criminal enforcement actions.

Financial Litigation Unit

FLU’s primary function is to litigate and enforce collection of criminal and civil debts owed to the United States, including judgments, fines, restitution and penalties.

Defensive Litigation

This unit defends the United States, federal agencies, and federal employees in a wide variety of lawsuits. Personal injury claims, employment litigation, bankruptcy cases, and challenges to agency decisions make up a large portion of the workload.

Updated April 20, 2020