OJP FY 2026 Special Attorneys Program Round 5

The Special Attorneys Program is administered by the U.S. Department of Justice through the Office of Justice Programs and its Bureau of Justice Assistance. This initiative is designed to strengthen prosecutorial capacity across jurisdictions by enabling state, local, Tribal, and territorial prosecuting agencies to collaborate directly with federal authorities. The program operates under statutory authority codified in federal law and focuses on enhancing coordination between local prosecutors and federal enforcement divisions, particularly the National Fraud Enforcement Division, the Criminal Division, and United States Attorney Offices. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to support the assignment or hiring of qualified prosecutors to serve in cross designated roles as Special Attorneys or Special Assistant United States Attorneys. These prosecutors remain employees of their home agencies while working in coordination with federal partners to investigate and prosecute fraud and other crimes committed by criminal aliens, as well as drug and human trafficking offenses. The program seeks to expand the reach and effectiveness of prosecutorial efforts by embedding local expertise within federal enforcement frameworks, thereby increasing case capacity and improving intergovernmental collaboration. Funding under this program is substantial, with a total expected allocation of 300000000 dollars. Awards are structured as cooperative agreements and are based on the approved costs requested by applicants rather than fixed award amounts. Funds may cover 100 percent of salary and fringe benefits for assigned prosecutors. Additionally, up to 20 percent of the total award may be used for related expenses such as staffing support, training, equipment, and technology enhancements that improve investigative and prosecutorial capabilities. The performance period for funded projects is expected to span 36 months beginning June 1, 2026. Eligibility for this program is limited to government entities that possess the legal and operational capacity to employ prosecutors in cross designated roles. This includes state governments, county governments, city or township governments, and federally recognized Tribal governments. Applicants must be willing to enter into a memorandum of understanding with relevant federal entities and demonstrate their ability to coordinate with federal immigration authorities. There is no cost sharing or matching requirement associated with this funding opportunity, which lowers barriers for eligible jurisdictions. The application process involves a two step submission through federal systems. Applicants must first submit the SF 424 form through Grants.gov, followed by a full application in JustGrants. Required components include a proposal narrative, budget, supporting documentation demonstrating statutory authority, and additional materials such as resumes, proof of bar admission, and letters of support from federal partners. The proposal narrative is evaluated based on goals and objectives, project design and implementation, and organizational capabilities. Budget justification and alignment with program goals are also assessed. This funding opportunity is released in multiple rounds and operates on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted. For Round 5, applications were due in late July 2026, with subsequent rounds scheduled shortly thereafter. Awards are made on a rolling basis, and applicants are encouraged to begin required registrations early. Performance reporting is required on a semi annual basis, and recipients must comply with federal reporting and administrative requirements throughout the grant period. Overall, the program represents a significant federal investment in enhancing prosecutorial coordination and capacity across multiple levels of government. By supporting cross designated attorneys and strengthening partnerships between jurisdictions, the initiative aims to improve enforcement outcomes related to fraud, immigration related offenses, and transnational criminal activity while reinforcing public safety infrastructure nationwide.

Emphasize prosecutorial capacity coordination with federal partners and clear implementation timelines; justify staffing needs and any use of additional 20 percent funding