In the high-stakes arena of legal battles surrounding former President Donald Trump, one figure has consistently emerged as a vocal defender both inside and outside the courtroom: Alina Habba. Often referred to as Trump’s female lawyer, Habba has become a prominent face in his legal team, navigating complex cases and media scrutiny with equal fervor. This article delves into the background, role, and impact of Alina Habba, offering a comprehensive look at the attorney who has become an indispensable voice in Trump’s legal defense.
The courtroom drama of Trump’s civil fraud trial saw moments of intense legal maneuvering, with Habba often at the center of it all. During a particularly tense moment when Trump’s legal team seemed to be facing roadblocks in making motions before Judge Arthur Engoron, it was Habba who stepped in as a negotiator. Despite having previously criticized the judge outside of court, Habba adopted a conciliatory approach inside, clarifying the defense’s position and ultimately securing permission to proceed with their motion – a request that was initially met with resistance. This instance highlighted Habba’s dual role: the outspoken advocate in the public eye and the strategic negotiator within the legal system. Even though the mistrial request was eventually denied, this exchange showcased how Trump’s female lawyer operates in a multifaceted capacity, attempting to bridge divides and advocate for her client’s interests even in challenging circumstances.
From Fashion to Law: The Making of Alina Habba
Alina Habba’s path to becoming a high-profile attorney was not a traditional one. Before entering the legal profession, she spent two years in the fashion industry as a merchandiser for Marc Jacobs. This experience in a fast-paced, image-conscious environment may have inadvertently prepared her for the media-saturated world of political law. She then transitioned to law, earning her degree from Widener University Commonwealth Law School in Pennsylvania in 2011. Her early legal career included a clerkship with New Jersey Superior Court Judge Eugene Codey Jr., followed by eight years in private practice across two firms. In 2020, she launched her own practice, focusing on civil and commercial litigation, setting the stage for her eventual foray into the Trump legal sphere.
Former President Donald Trump and lawyer Alina Habba attend the Trump Organization civil fraud trial, in New York State Supreme Court in New York City, Nov 6, 2023.
Former President Donald Trump and lawyer Alina Habba during the civil fraud trial, showcasing Trump’s female lawyer in action.
The Trump Connection: A Turning Point for Habba’s Career
Habba’s connection to Donald Trump reportedly began through his Bedminster, New Jersey, golf club. Her significant break came when she was chosen to represent Trump in a substantial $100 million lawsuit against the New York Times and his niece, Mary L. Trump. Although this particular lawsuit against the New York Times was unsuccessful, it marked the beginning of Habba’s close professional relationship with Trump and her entry into the high-stakes world of Trump-related litigation.
Since then, Habba’s legal record for Trump has been varied. She experienced a notable win when Summer Zervos, a former “Apprentice” contestant who had accused Trump of sexual assault, withdrew her defamation lawsuit against him. This victory earned Habba public praise from Trump. However, in another high-profile case, a lawsuit filed by Habba alleging a conspiracy against Trump involving Hillary Clinton and others was dismissed. The judge in that case went further, accusing Trump of abusing the legal system for political retribution and imposing a near-$1 million fine on both Trump and Habba. Despite these mixed outcomes, Habba’s role within Trump’s legal circle solidified, particularly as she became a prominent figure defending him against numerous legal challenges.
Trump’s Legal Spokesperson: Habba’s Role Beyond the Courtroom
Alina Habba’s role extends beyond courtroom arguments; she has become a key legal spokesperson for Trump, especially following his multiple criminal indictments. Her consistent presence by Trump’s side during his civil fraud trial in New York has made her a recognizable figure in his defense strategy. Financial records indicate that her law firm has received over $3.6 million from Trump’s political action committees, underscoring her integral role in his legal and public relations efforts.
Habba has frequently used her platform to defend not only Trump’s actions but also his character. In one instance, following Trump’s indictment for the mishandling of classified documents in Florida, she appeared on Fox News and declared Trump “the most ethical American I know.” Such staunch defenses have become a hallmark of her public persona as Trump’s female lawyer, solidifying her position as a loyal and unwavering advocate.
Navigating the Fraud Trial: Dual Roles and High Tension
In the Trump fraud trial, Habba took on multiple roles, representing not only the former president but also former Trump Organization employees Allen Weisselberg and Jeffrey McConney, who were also defendants. However, beyond her opening statement where she mentioned representing Weisselberg and McConney, her primary focus appeared to be on defending Donald Trump himself. While Clifford Robert, representing Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr., often focused on specific actions of Trump’s sons, Habba’s line of questioning and statements frequently revolved around the former president.
Lawyer Alina Habba speaks to the media outside the New York Supreme Court, Nov. 6, 2023, in New York.
Alina Habba addressing the media outside the New York Supreme Court, highlighting her role as a public-facing figure in Trump’s legal team.
Habba’s courtroom style is assertive and direct. In her opening statement, she characterized the New York Attorney General Letitia James’s actions as politically motivated, stating James was “going to work, get Trump, and go home.” When Judge Engoron restricted comments about his clerk, Habba, along with Chris Kise, raised concerns about a “perception of bias,” citing “eye rolls and constant whispering at the bench” as distractions. Her vocal objections and willingness to challenge the court have become defining aspects of her representation of Trump.
During Trump’s own testimony, when he was restricted from discussing the case, Habba stepped outside the courtroom to address the media, proclaiming a “demise of the American judicial system.” Her arguments did achieve a partial victory when an appeals court temporarily lifted the limited gag order against comments about court staff, which Habba hailed as a win for free speech.
“I Didn’t Forget to Check the Box”: Addressing Jury Trial Speculation
One point of contention during the trial was the absence of a jury. Habba criticized the proceedings on the grounds that Trump was entitled to a jury trial. Judge Engoron clarified that a jury trial was not requested, leading to widespread speculation that Trump’s legal team, possibly including Trump’s female lawyer, had simply failed to request one.
Judge Engoron directly addressed this speculation, stating, “Nobody forgot to check off a box,” and that the case was always intended to be a non-jury trial. Habba responded, acknowledging the controversy and humorously telling the press, “Press, did you hear that? I didn’t forget to check the box,” attempting to defuse the criticism and speculation surrounding this procedural aspect of the trial.
Cross-Examining Michael Cohen: A “Perry Mason Moment”?
A significant moment in the trial was Habba’s cross-examination of Michael Cohen, Trump’s former lawyer. Over two days, Habba grilled Cohen, who had previously served jail time for felony offenses including his involvement in the Stormy Daniels hush money payment. Her aggressive questioning led to moments where Cohen attempted to object to her line of inquiry. In a notable exchange, Habba asserted her control, telling Cohen, “Mr. Cohen, here’s how this is going to work. You’re not on Mea Culpa. You’re not on your podcast and you’re not on CNN. You’re here with me.”
Under Habba’s cross-examination, Cohen admitted to prior perjury, a moment that Trump and his supporters viewed as a major victory. Trump himself described it as “better than a Perry Mason moment,” suggesting Habba’s performance had significantly discredited Cohen’s testimony. Habba further pressed Cohen by having him recite his 2018 sentencing transcript and reading past news articles where Cohen had praised Trump, aiming to undermine Cohen’s credibility and highlight his past loyalty to the former president. Her assertive and extended cross-examination underscored her combative approach and dedication to defending her client, even relishing the intensity of the legal confrontation.
Conclusion: Alina Habba’s Enduring Role in Trump’s Legal Battles
Alina Habba’s journey from commercial litigation to becoming a central figure in Donald Trump’s legal defense is a testament to her adaptability and assertive legal style. As Trump’s female lawyer, she has navigated a complex web of legal challenges, media attention, and political undercurrents. Whether acting as a negotiator in tense courtroom moments, a staunch defender in media appearances, or a sharp cross-examiner, Habba has solidified her position as a key player in Trump’s ongoing legal battles. Her continued presence and vocal advocacy ensure that she remains a prominent and often discussed figure in the narrative surrounding the former president and his legal endeavors.
