auror_department

Auror Department

Introduction

The Auror Department, also known as the Auror Office, is an elite unit of highly trained, specialist wizards and witches operating within the Department of Magical Law Enforcement at the British Ministry of Magic. Their primary responsibility is the investigation of crimes related to the Dark Arts and the apprehension of Dark wizards. Due to the high level of skill, bravery, and character required, becoming an Auror is exceptionally difficult, and they are often regarded as the magical equivalent of elite detectives and law enforcement officers in the Muggle world.

Function and History

The core function of the Auror Department is to serve as the primary defence against the most dangerous threats to the wizarding community. Aurors are trained to be expert duelists and investigators, possessing a deep knowledge of defensive and offensive magic. During the First Wizarding War, under the leadership of Barty Crouch Sr., Aurors were granted special permissions to use the Unforgivable Curses in order to effectively combat Lord Voldemort and his Death Eaters. This period saw many famous Aurors, such as Alastor Moody, rise to prominence, though the department also suffered heavy casualties. Following Voldemort's first defeat, Aurors were responsible for tracking down and imprisoning his remaining followers, such as in the case of Igor Karkaroff. At the beginning of the Second Wizarding War, the department's effectiveness was severely hampered by Minister for Magic Cornelius Fudge's refusal to accept Voldemort's return. However, several Aurors, including Kingsley Shacklebolt and Nymphadora Tonks, worked undercover as members of the reformed Order of the Phoenix. After the Ministry of Magic fell to Voldemort's control, the Auror Department was corrupted, with its members either controlled, replaced, or forced into hiding. Following Voldemort's final defeat, Minister for Magic Kingsley Shacklebolt led a massive reform of the department, with Harry Potter and Ron Weasley joining its ranks.

Recruitment and Training

The selection process for becoming an Auror is notoriously stringent and consists of several stages.

  • Academic Requirements: A candidate must achieve a minimum of five N.E.W.T.s, with top grades of either 'Outstanding' or 'Exceeds Expectations'. Key subjects recommended by Professor McGonagall include:
  • Aptitude Tests: After meeting the academic standards, candidates must pass a series of rigorous character and aptitude tests at the Auror Office. These tests are designed to assess practical skills in areas such as practical defence, stealth, and concealment.
  • Formal Training: Successful candidates then undergo a further three years of intensive Auror training to hone their skills in advanced magical combat and investigative techniques before they can fully qualify.

Headquarters: The Auror Office

The Auror Department is headquartered in the Auror Office, located on Level Two of the Ministry of Magic. It is a noisy, bustling, open-plan office consisting of a series of cubicles. The space is described as shabby and hectic, with each Auror's cubicle often reflecting their personality.

Known Personnel

Heads of Department:

Known Aurors:

Behind the Scenes