When a Brief Becomes a Burn: The Halligan Controversy in Virginia

A Virginia case hinges on the DOJ’s decision to have Halligan continue as U.S. Attorney despite a judge’s ruling that her appointment may be unlawful; the government’s response brief is criticized for vitriolic rhetoric and threats toward the judge. The piece argues that, even with a sound legal position, such rhetoric undermines court relations and that the proper path is appellate review rather than courtroom invective, with the matter likely headed to the Fourth Circuit for resolution.