A U.S. appeals court has ruled that Alina Habba, President Donald Trump's former personal lawyer and his appointee as U.S. Attorney in New Jersey, is serving unlawfully. The three-judge panel in Philadelphia upheld a lower federal court's decision, citing that Habba was appointed through illegal maneuvers rather than traditional Senate confirmation or judicial appointment processes. The court noted that the Trump administration's frustration with legal and political barriers led to these unusual tactics, but emphasized that citizens and U.S. attorney staff deserve clarity and stability. The ruling affects ongoing legal proceedings in New Jersey, slowing some criminal cases and halting grand jury activities. The Justice Department and Habba's spokeswoman did not comment. Additionally, another federal appeals court disqualified Habba from serving as New Jersey’s top federal prosecutor, reinforcing the earlier ruling and highlighting ongoing legal challenges to Trump-era appointments. The appellate court's decision underscores the legal obstacles faced by the Trump administration in installing preferred law enforcement officials, with potential implications for other controversial appointments.