A federal judge ruled on Thursday that Alina Habba, identified as President Donald Trump’s former personal lawyer, is not lawfully acting as the acting US attorney for New Jersey. This decision sets the stage for a potential appellate court examination of the Trump administration’s approach to appointing certain top prosecutors nationwide.

The ruling by the federal judge raises questions about the validity of Habba’s current role as the acting US attorney for New Jersey. Legal experts suggest that this development could prompt a closer review of the process employed by the Trump administration in appointing key law enforcement officials.

In response to the judge’s decision, a White House official emphasized the administration’s commitment to upholding the law in all its appointments. Meanwhile, Habba’s legal team is reportedly considering their next steps following the ruling.

The issue of appointing acting US attorneys has been a subject of scrutiny, with critics pointing to concerns over the legality and transparency of such appointments. The judge’s ruling in this case adds to the ongoing debate over the methods used by the Trump administration in filling these crucial law enforcement positions.

As the legal proceedings unfold, it remains to be seen how this ruling will impact the broader discourse surrounding the appointment of acting US attorneys and the administration’s adherence to legal protocols in such appointments. The decision by the federal judge underscores the significance of ensuring that the process of appointing top prosecutors is carried out in accordance with established legal norms.