DOJ Sues 15 Maryland Judges Over Automatic Deportation Pauses

The Justice Department is suing all 15 federal district judges in Maryland over a standing order that automatically imposes two‑business‑day injunctions pausing deportations when cases are filed. A Virginia-based judge heard arguments, with DOJ claiming the order unlawfully interferes with DHS authority, while the judges’ counsel defended it as a modest measure to preserve the status quo amid after-hours filings. The case tests separation of powers and judicial independence and follows high-profile Maryland removals, including the mistaken deportation and return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia. A decision is expected by Labor Day, with significant implications for the administration’s broader deportation agenda.