Former Immigration Judge Files Lawsuit Against DOJ

Former Judge Challenges Her Termination

Chloe Dillon, previously an immigration judge in San Francisco, has initiated a federal lawsuit after her dismissal by the Department of Justice (DOJ). She claims her termination was due to her objections to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations and strategies.

With her case, Dillon becomes the first of 14 judges fired since President Donald Trump resumed office in January 2025 to challenge the decision legally. She argues that immigration courts no longer function as impartial forums. “This issue has wide-reaching effects,” Dillon told Newsweek, emphasizing its impact on various communities.

Lawsuit Specifics

Filed against Attorney General Todd Blanche, the DOJ, the Executive Office for Immigration Review, and its acting director, Sirce Owen, the lawsuit faces official denial. A DOJ spokesperson dismissed the claims as “patently false” and underscored the DOJ’s aim to restore integrity within the immigration system.

Dillon’s lawsuit contends her firing was unlawful, following her repeated expression of concerns regarding ICE’s actions, including an incident where ICE allegedly detained an unaccompanied minor without legal basis. She was reportedly terminated without cause two days after raising these concerns.

Allegations and Due Process

Dillon claims the termination disregarded her constitutional due process and First Amendment rights, influenced partly by perceived political views. Appointed by the Biden administration, Dillon served from September 2022 to August 2025, bringing previous experience as a federal public defender in San Diego.

The lawsuit also highlights directives from the San Francisco assistant chief immigration judge in April 2025, who encouraged ICE motions to transfer cases—something Dillon objected to—resulting in warnings about the White House’s interest in her actions.

Regarding courthouse arrests and minors’ rights, Dillon emphasized the risks such practices pose to due process and court operations, especially when involving unaccompanied minors protected under DOJ agreements.

Impact of Immigration Policies

Following significant personnel changes, San Francisco’s immigration court recently closed. Public concerns about ICE’s operations are growing, with recent polls suggesting declining support for Trump’s immigration policies.

In 2025, ICE’s operations faced criticism for instances of fatal encounters. Notable incidents included the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti during ICE and Border Patrol operations. These events fueled debates on the use of deadly force and detention practices.

Reports indicate 30 individuals died in ICE custody in 2025, the highest annual count since 2004. Issues with minor detention are alarming, with thousands entering immigrant family detention in 2025 alone.

Legal and Future Developments

Dillon seeks restoration to her post, along with back pay, lost benefits, and damages. The government has a 60-day window to respond. As Dillon expressed to Newsweek, the progression to discovery holds importance.

For further inquiries, contact Newsweek editors John Fitzpatrick and Dave Siminoff on the matter.