Guiding Principles for Training at the Department of Justice

Yesterday, Deputy Attorney General James Cole issued a memorandum to all component heads and United States Attorneys outlining a set of core principles for training conducted or funded by the Department of Justice.

Training is an important part of fulfilling the department’s responsibilities to keep America safe and ensure the fair and impartial administration of justice.

As Deputy Attorney General Cole notes in his memorandum:

“This responsibility demands that Department representatives perform their duties consistent with the Constitution and Department values, at the highest level of professionalism, and in a manner that conveys respect for all.”

Following the discovery last year of problematic training materials used in certain instances, Deputy Attorney General Cole issued a memorandum on September 28, 2011 to component heads and United States Attorneys to review all training materials and presentations provided by their personnel. Building on that directive, this memorandum directs all training adhere to the following core principles:

 1.Training must be consistent with the Constitution and Department values.

 2.The content of trainings and training materials must be accurate, appropriately tailored, and focused.

 3.Trainers must be well-qualified in the subject area and skilled in presenting it.

 4.Trainers must demonstrate the highest standards of professionalism.

 5.Training must meet Department standards.

These guiding principles both reflect longstanding department values and highlight the importance of ensuring that the department continue to respectfully engage with the diverse communities it has the privilege to serve.  The principles are the result of the collaborative effort and input of representatives of relevant department components and U.S. Attorney’s Offices, which participate in the Attorney General’s Arab-Muslim Engagement Advisory Group.