Brett A. Shumate

Brett A. Shumate serves as the Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Division of the U.S. Department of Justice. Sworn in during 2025, he leads the federal government’s civil litigation, representing the United States in matters involving constitutional challenges, federal programs, regulatory enforcement, and claims against the government. His role includes supervising complex litigation strategy and coordinating legal positions across agencies in cases of national significance.

Brett earned his J.D. from Wake Forest University School of Law and holds an undergraduate degree from Furman University. His legal education emphasized appellate advocacy, constitutional law, and federal litigation. This academic foundation prepared him for high-level public service and complex legal analysis required in matters involving administrative law, separation of powers, and statutory interpretation before federal courts nationwide.

Early in his career, Brett clerked for Judge Edith H. Jones of the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, gaining direct exposure to appellate decision-making. He later served in the Department of Justice as Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Federal Programs Branch, where he handled significant constitutional and regulatory cases. Between public service roles, he practiced as a partner at a major international law firm, advising on complex federal litigation.

As Assistant Attorney General, Brett A. Shumate oversees one of the Justice Department’s largest divisions, managing litigation that shapes federal policy and governmental authority. He is recognized for disciplined legal reasoning, strategic leadership, and deep experience in federal courts. Through public service and litigation management, he plays a central role in defending the United States in consequential civil matters, ensuring consistent legal positions and effective advocacy on behalf of the federal government nationwide.

Law Office Affiliations

• Assistant Attorney General, U.S. Department of Justice
• Member, District of Columbia Bar Association

Licensed State

• District of Columbia

Education

• Wake Forest University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Furman University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges