Court Rulings Void Halligan’s Interim Appointment Federal judges ruled that Halligan’s 120‑day interim U.S. attorney appointment was unlawful, stripping “United States Attorney” from her signature block and prohibiting her from using the title in filings, with potential disciplinary sanctions if she persisted [1][2][3]. Two separate orders also directed the clerk to publish a vacancy notice for the Eastern District of Virginia post [2][3]. The rulings invalidated indictments she had secured against James and former FBI Director James Comey, leading to their dismissal [3].

Attorney General Bondi Announces Exit and Frames Future Role Attorney General Pam Bondi posted on X that Halligan’s departure represents a significant loss for the Justice Department and asserted that Halligan will continue to serve the country in other capacities [1][2][3]. Bondi criticized the staffing controversy as “deeply misguided” and pledged a review of decisions that she says hinder public safety [3]. The announcement underscored the ongoing dispute between the executive branch and the judiciary over appointment authority [1].

Vacancy Process Initiated with Application Deadline February 10 Chief Judge M. Hannah Lauck issued an order advertising the interim U.S. attorney vacancy and set February 10 as the deadline for applications [2][3]. The Eastern District of Virginia will solicit and review candidates during this period while appeals concerning Halligan’s appointment continue [1]. The vacancy notice reflects the court’s effort to fill the leadership gap created by the departure [2].

Legal Fallout Includes Dismissed Indictments and Parallel Unlawful Service Cases The court’s finding of unlawful appointment led to the dismissal of high‑profile indictments against James Comey and former White House aide James James [3]. A similar unlawful‑service ruling forced Alina Habba, another Trump ally, to resign, illustrating a broader pattern of challenges to politically appointed officials [1]. These outcomes highlight the legal and procedural ramifications of contested appointments from the previous administration [3].