LOS ANGELES (AP) — A federal judge has disqualified acting U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli in Southern California from multiple cases after concluding Tuesday that a Trump appointee remained in a temporary job longer than allowed by law.
U.S. District Judge J. Michael Seabright disqualified Essayli from overseeing prosecutions in three cases, siding with defense attorneys who argued his authority expired in July.
“Simply put: Essayli unlawfully assumed the role of Acting United States Attorney for the Central District of California,” Seabright wrote in his decision. “He has unlawfully held this position since his resignation from his interim position on July 29, 2025. Essayli is unable to perform the functions and duties of a United States Attorney as an Acting United States Attorney. He is disqualified from serving in this office.”
The decision represents another setback in the Trump administration's efforts to extend carefully selected active US attorneys beyond the 120-day period established by federal law. The judge made the decision in September Acting Nevada State Attorney Sigal Chattah held her position illegally. Another judge disqualified acting U.S. Attorney for New Jersey Alina Habba. in August.
However, the same judge who disqualified Chatta ruled last week that he is suspending his previous decision while a federal appeals court hears the U.S. Justice Department's appeal, allowing her to temporarily remain involved in cases handled by her office. Court of Appeal heard the arguments on Monday also about Habba's appointment, questioning government lawyers about their maneuvers to keep Habba in place.
Under federal law, if a permanent U.S. attorney is not nominated by the president and confirmed by the Senate within 120 days, federal district court judges can appoint a temporary prosecutor until the vacancy is filled. Essayli was not confirmed by the US Senate.
Essayli's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Jamie Dean, Associated Press
