James Defeats DOJ Bid to Undermine NY Court Protections

NEW YORK – The fight to shield those seeking justice from federal immigration sweeps just scored a major win. Today, a federal judge tossed out the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) lawsuit attempting to dismantle New York’s “Protect Our Courts Act.” New York Attorney General Letitia James, a relentless defender of immigrant rights, successfully argued that the state has the authority to safeguard access to its courts, regardless of federal immigration concerns.

The DOJ’s challenge aimed to nullify a state law enacted to prevent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from making civil arrests at or near courthouses. The practice, a hallmark of the previous Trump administration, was widely condemned as a tactic to intimidate immigrant communities and disrupt the pursuit of legal recourse. James previously secured a landmark decision in 2020 that temporarily halted these courthouse arrests, a victory she built upon with the passage of the “Protect Our Courts Act.”

“Everyone deserves to seek justice without fear,” James stated following the court’s decision. “Today’s ruling ensures that anyone can utilize the New York State courts without being targeted by federal authorities.” The Attorney General’s office has been a consistent thorn in the side of federal overreach when it comes to immigration enforcement within the state.

The ruling by the United States District Court for the Northern District of New York affirms that no federal immigration law supersedes New York’s right to protect access to its judicial system. Judge, whose name has been withheld, found that the state’s law does not conflict with federal authority, but rather exercises a legitimate state interest in ensuring fair and equal access to justice.

This isn’t the first time James has battled the feds over immigration policy. Her 2020 victory against the Trump administration set the stage for the “Protect Our Courts Act,” codifying protections against courthouse immigration sweeps. The DOJ’s attempt to overturn the law in June of 2025 was seen by many as a direct attack on New York’s sovereignty and a continuation of a divisive policy.

James vowed to continue fighting for the dignity and rights of immigrant communities throughout New York. The decision is a significant blow to the DOJ’s efforts to expand immigration enforcement and a clear signal that states will not stand idly by while federal agencies attempt to undermine access to justice. The case serves as a potent reminder that the battle over immigration policy continues to be waged not just in Washington, but in courtrooms across the nation.”