US Justice Department Dismisses Veteran Lawyer Hours After Judicial Appointment
The US Department of Justice has terminated veteran attorney James W Hundley mere hours after a panel of federal judges unanimously appointed him as the interim US Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. This swift action marks the latest clash between the judiciary and the Trump administration over the authority to appoint federal prosecutors, underscoring deep-seated tensions in the legal system.
Dismissal Announced Shortly After Swearing-In
Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche announced the dismissal shortly after Hundley was sworn in by Chief US District Judge M. Hannah Lauck in Richmond. Blanche declared on social media that the power to appoint US attorneys resides with the president, not federal judges, reinforcing the administration's stance on executive control over such positions.
Hundley's Response and Background
James W Hundley, chosen to temporarily fill the vacancy following the departure of Trump ally Lindsey Halligan, expressed that it was an honor to be appointed by the court. Despite his abrupt removal, he affirmed his commitment to supporting the justice system. Hundley is a seasoned criminal defense and civil litigation attorney with over three decades of experience practicing in Virginia, Washington, DC, and Maryland.
He has handled numerous high-stakes criminal cases involving allegations such as bank fraud, bribery, embezzlement, tax evasion, and computer fraud. Additionally, Hundley has represented clients in civil disputes covering contracts, civil rights, and trade secrets. His appellate experience is notable, including arguing the landmark Dickerson v. United States case before the US Supreme Court in 2000, which reaffirmed the constitutional requirement for Miranda warnings.
Legal and Political Context of the Firing
This sudden firing highlights escalating tensions regarding the appointment of interim US attorneys. This issue has gained prominence after several federal courts ruled that Trump administration appointees had been serving unlawfully. Federal law permits judges to appoint interim prosecutors if a presidential nominee is not confirmed by the Senate within 120 days. However, the Justice Department maintains that the president and attorney general ultimately hold authority over these appointments.
The Eastern District of Virginia position has been at the center of controversy due to politically sensitive investigations involving New York Attorney General Letitia James and former FBI director James Comey, both critics of President Donald Trump. Previous prosecutors overseeing this office either resigned under pressure or were removed following disputes over charging decisions and the legality of their appointments.
Significance of Hundley's Appointment
Hundley's appointment by judges was viewed as an effort to restore continuity in one of the nation's most influential federal prosecutor offices, often dubbed the "rocket docket" for its rapid handling of cases. His brief and turbulent tenure adds him to a growing list of prosecutors whose roles have been entangled in political and legal battles over federal prosecutorial authority.
Professional Achievements and Recognition
A graduate of Georgetown University Law Center, Hundley began his career clerking for a federal judge before serving as an Assistant Commonwealth's Attorney in Fairfax County. In 1997, he co-founded the Virginia-based law firm Briglia Hundley. He has been recognized among top criminal defense lawyers by professional rating organizations and has held several leadership roles within the Virginia State Bar, including serving on its governing council and disciplinary committees.
Known for his expertise in complex criminal defense and appellate litigation, Hundley has also lectured at leading law schools and legal education programs, contributing to the legal community's knowledge and practice.
