NCJ Number
153915
Date Published
1990
Length
377 pages
Annotation
Testimony at this hearing examines the priorities of the Civil Division of the U.S. Justice Department and determines how the litigation and appellate records impact upon the administration of justice.
Abstract
The opening statement of Senator Howell Heflin notes that the Civil Division of the Department of Justice is requesting an increase of $9.2 million for fiscal year 1989; $2.1 million would be applied toward what is termed "uncontrollables" and $7.2 million would be for "automated litigation support." The Division is not requesting any additional staff positions. The Civil Division serves as the law firm for the Federal Government. Testimony by John R. Bolton, Assistant Attorney General of the Civil Division of the U.S. Department of Justice, advises that the Civil Division has been instrumental in securing $610.8 million for the Federal Government in court-imposed awards and negotiated settlements and more than $2.8 billion in real property and other assets. Prosecution of fraud cases in 1987 enabled recovery of more than $72 million in 51 civil suits and presuit settlements. The witness indicates that in order to maintain its current level of activity, the Office of Management and Budget and the President have included in their budget the $7.2 million-increase in the Automated Litigation Support. Some current ongoing cases that require continued funding are mentioned. A written statement of testimony and a written strategy for the Civil Division are included.