The Delaware Department of Justice (DOJ) is facing a staffing crisis, with Attorney General Kathy Jennings reporting that the agency is critically understaffed and losing senior deputy attorneys to higher-paying private firms. As of February 7, there were 31 vacancies out of 243 attorney positions, with 27 of those vacancies in senior positions within the Criminal Division. Jennings emphasized the importance of retaining experienced prosecutors in order to prioritize public safety and bring money back to the state.
In response to this staffing crisis, Jennings is requesting $5.5 million for salary compensation needs, arguing that investing in salaried employees will ultimately save the state money by avoiding the need to contract out. While the department has made improvements in hiring junior attorneys following previous salary hike approvals, there are still four junior vacancies, with three spots being held open for the best 2024 law clerks.
In addition to the salary compensation request, DOJ is also seeking a 7.5% increase for personnel salaries and benefits, lease escalators, and funding for previously grant-funded positions. The requested increase would bring the department’s budget to around $70 million. Ultimately, it will be up to the Joint Finance Committee and the General Assembly to decide on a recommended amount for compensation increases. Jennings is hopeful that the full amount will be considered, especially with a rise in federal cases against the Trump administration.
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