February 6, 2026

In this week's edition of "How Appealing Weekly Roundup," curated by Howard Bashman’s pioneering blog devoted to appellate litigation, several critical stories underscore the current judicial and legal challenges facing the United States. Here’s a brief overview of the significant developments.
Overwhelmed Justice Department Amid Immigration Crackdown
According to Sadie Gurman and Hannah Critchfield of The Wall Street Journal, the U.S. Justice Department is reeling under the pressure of intensified immigration enforcement. Reports from both current and former prosecutors shed light on the personal and professional strains experienced by government lawyers, one of whom confessed to a judge about being overwhelmed. This piece provides an inside look at the challenges faced by those at the frontline of America's immigration policy enforcement.
Tumult at Paul Weiss Following Epstein Revelations
A major shakeup has occurred at one of the elite law firms, Paul Weiss, following new revelations in the Epstein saga. The Wall Street Journal reporters Cara Lombardo, Lauren Thomas, and Erin Mulvaney detail how the discovery of a batch of Epstein-related emails led partners to oust chairman Brad Karp. This internal revolt highlights the ongoing repercussions of the Epstein case in legal circles and beyond.
Controversial Reinterpretation of Birthright Citizenship by Trump’s DOJ
In an analysis by Justin Wise of Bloomberg Law, a significant reinterpretation of birthright citizenship by the Justice Department under the Trump administration is brought to the forefront. This report discusses how historical contexts and legal precedents are being reevaluated by the Justice Department, potentially impacting the interpretation of the Constitution by the U.S. Supreme Court.
Ethical Questions Arise from DOJ’s Actions Against Journalist
Charlie Savage of The New York Times explores a controversial action by the Justice Department that may have breached ethical guidelines. The DOJ failed to disclose a crucial 1980 law when it sought a warrant to search a Washington Post reporter’s home, raising serious questions about transparency and legality in handling cases involving the press.
Financial Misrepresentations Come to Light in Goldstein Trial
Bloomberg Law’s Holly Barker reports on the ongoing trial of an individual named Goldstein, where it was revealed to the jury that he had understated his debt to secure a loan. This case draws attention to issues of financial honesty and the legal repercussions of deceit in financial dealings.
Each of these reports from How Appealing offers a window into the complexities of appellate litigation and the broader legal challenges currently shaping America. For those interested in the intricate workings of law and justice, these stories provide critical insights and underscore the dynamic nature of legal interpretations and their profound impacts on society.