OPDAT

OPDAT, the Office of Overseas Prosecutorial Development, Assistance and Training, is a component of the U.S. Department of Justice dedicated to strengthening prosecutorial and justice-sector institutions abroad. Its mission is to assist foreign prosecutors and judiciary systems through training, mentoring, and technical assistance designed to promote the rule of law, improve criminal justice capacity, and facilitate international cooperation in criminal matters.

Programs address areas such as trial advocacy, evidence handling, criminal procedure, corruption, financial crimes, organized crime, terrorism, extradition, and mutual legal assistance. Delivery methods include short-term workshops, long-term fellowships, on-site mentoring, and secondments. OPDAT works closely with host-country ministries of justice, courts, and law-enforcement agencies, and coordinates with U.S. diplomatic missions and international partners to tailor assistance to local needs.

Administratively, OPDAT operates under the Office of International Affairs within the Department of Justice. Its work draws on DOJ prosecutors, experienced judges and investigators, and subject-matter experts, who provide training and advisory support in collaboration with foreign governments. Programs are implemented in cooperation with other U.S. government agencies, such as the FBI and, where appropriate, USAID, as well as international organizations and partner countries.

OPDAT was established in the 1990s as part of U.S. efforts to bolster independent, accountable criminal justice systems abroad. Over the years, its activities have supported prosecutors in numerous regions, contributing to reforms in prosecutorial practices and international legal cooperation.