Key facts
- Judge Jesse Furman ruled Maurene Comey's firing unlawful, violating the Civil Service Reform Act.
- The ruling rejected the DOJ's argument that presidential power allows for the firing of line prosecutors without cause.
- Comey, daughter of former FBI Director James Comey, successfully litigated cases against Ghislaine Maxwell and Sean Combs.
- The Department of Justice is expected to appeal the ruling to the second circuit court of appeals.
- The ruling is not binding on other judges but may be persuasive in similar cases.
A federal judge has ruled that the Department of Justice unlawfully fired assistant US attorney Maurene Comey, daughter of former FBI Director James Comey. Judge Jesse Furman determined this week that the firing violated the Civil Service Reform Act and rejected the government's argument that presidential power under Article II of the Constitution allowed for such dismissals without cause. The ruling, which vindicated Comey and rejected the government's arguments, is seen by legal experts as a significant precedent that could influence other judges. Comey, who successfully prosecuted high-profile cases including those against Ghislaine Maxwell and Sean Combs, filed suit after receiving a termination letter on July 16, 2025, with no explanation. The Department of Justice, which allegedly directed the firing through former US Attorney General Pam Bondi and successor Todd Blanche, claimed familial relations could be considered in termination proceedings. The White House, however, rejected allegations of politically motivated firings, stating President Trump has not weaponized the DOJ against political foes.