A federal judge has ruled that Alina Habba, former personal lawyer to Donald Trump, was unlawfully appointed as acting U.S. Attorney for New Jersey, declaring her ineligible to oversee ongoing cases. U.S. District Judge Matthew Brann found that the Trump administration improperly extended Habba’s interim tenure, which expired after 120 days, through procedural maneuvers designed to keep her in the post. The ruling threatens to disrupt hundreds of federal criminal cases, including indictments she approved.
The challenge was brought by defendants in two high-profile cases, including Julien Giraud Jr. and III in a drug case, and Cesar Humberto Pina, accused of fraud and laundering drug proceeds. Brann noted that Habba’s actions since July 1 “may be declared void,” but clarified that indictments would not automatically be dismissed. Defense attorneys hailed the decision as a reaffirmation of congressional checks on executive power in appointing U.S. attorneys.
The Justice Department, led by Attorney General Pamela Bondi, announced plans to appeal, defending Habba as “doing incredible work in New Jersey.” Habba, appearing on Fox News, dismissed the ruling as politically motivated and vowed to continue serving in any capacity. The administration has accused federal judges of partisan motives while maneuvering to keep several Trump-aligned prosecutors in office, raising the stakes for ongoing legal battles over Justice Department leadership.
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