Washington, 2 December (H.S.): A federal appeals court on Monday unanimously ruled that Alina Habba, former personal lawyer to President Donald Trump, was unlawfully serving as the U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey. The ruling invalidates her appointment and marks a significant judicial rebuke to the Trump administration’s efforts to bypass the Senate confirmation process for key federal prosecutorial positions.

The three-judge panel of the Third Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a lower court’s decision that Habba’s appointment violated the Federal Vacancies Reform Act. The judges condemned the administration’s “broad and unprecedented” approach, cautioning that it threatens to erode constitutional safeguards designed to ensure proper vetting and confirmation of top federal officials.

Habba, 41, was appointed acting U.S. Attorney in July 2025 after her nomination was rejected by Senate confirmation. Attempts by the administration to keep her in office despite the expiration of her interim term drew legal challenges that culminated in this high-profile ruling. The court emphasized the importance of adhering to statutory processes, rejecting maneuvers aimed at maintaining political appointees in critical roles without legal authority.

The decision also follows a similar disqualification of another Trump appointee in Virginia, highlighting growing judicial scrutiny and pushback against the administration’s contested appointment practices. This ruling may impact ongoing criminal cases in New Jersey and shake up the federal prosecutorial landscape.

The Trump Justice Department is expected to appeal the decision to the Supreme Court, signaling a continuing legal battle over executive appointments. Meanwhile, the ruling underscores the judiciary’s role in preserving constitutional checks and balances amid political controversies.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar