A federal judge has ruled that Bill Essayli, a Trump-appointed U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California, was unlawfully serving in his role after exceeding a 120-day legal limit. On Tuesday, U.S. District Judge J. Michael Seabright determined that Essayli’s extension beyond July 31 violated federal appointment laws.

Essayli, selected by Trump in April to temporarily lead the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Los Angeles, was initially required to leave after 120 days. However, Attorney General Pam Bondi granted an extension, allowing him to remain in the position through 2026. Seabright concluded that this action was illegal, stating Essayli “unlawfully assumed the role” of Acting United States Attorney and is now disqualified from performing its duties.

The ruling marks the third instance where a judge has invalidated a Trump-appointed U.S. Attorney for exceeding service limits. Earlier decisions disqualifying Nevada’s Sigal Chattah and New Jersey’s Alina Habba cited similar violations of federal law.

Importantly, Seabright’s decision does not affect Essayli’s ability to serve as First Assistant U.S. Attorney or invalidate any indictments he signed, as those were also approved by other attorneys. Essayli has stated he will remain in his current role despite the ruling.