Former US Pardon Attorney Sues DOJ Over Firing Tied to Mel Gibson Gun Rights Case

The lawsuit, filed Thursday in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, alleges that Oyer was asked in early 2025, while she was serving as pardon attorney, to “disregard her duties and facilitate a political favor” for Gibson based on his relationship with Trump. When she refused, she was fired, the complaint states.

Oyer accuses the DOJ and Blanche of unlawful termination, arguing the firing was retaliatory and politically motivated. The case centers on Gibson’s gun rights, which had been restricted following a 2011 domestic violence conviction. Under federal law, individuals convicted of domestic violence are generally barred from possessing firearms, but a presidential pardon or restoration of rights can lift that prohibition.

The lawsuit adds to a series of controversies surrounding the Trump administration’s handling of the pardon process. Oyer was initially appointed as pardon attorney under the Biden administration in 2023 and was fired in March 2025, a move that drew scrutiny from members of Congress.

A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment on the pending litigation. The lawsuit seeks Oyer’s reinstatement and damages.

Why This Matters

The case tests whether the pardon attorney, a career position meant to provide impartial clemency recommendations, can be lawfully removed for refusing a political directive.
It raises broader questions about the politicization of the Justice Department under the Trump administration.
The outcome could set a precedent for whistleblower protections within the executive branch.

Background

Elizabeth Oyer served as the U.S. pardon attorney, a role within the Justice Department that evaluates clemency petitions and makes non-binding recommendations to the president. She was appointed in 2023. In early 2025, she was asked to facilitate a restoration of gun rights for actor Mel Gibson, a supporter of President Trump. When she refused, she was fired. The lawsuit now challenges the legality of that termination.

Key Perspectives

Elizabeth Oyer (plaintiff): Contends she was fired for refusing to carry out a politically motivated directive that violated her duty to apply the law impartially. Her lawsuit seeks to hold the DOJ and Attorney General Blanche accountable for unlawful retaliation. U.S. Department of Justice (defendant): Has not yet publicly responded to the specific allegations. Past administrations have defended the president’s broad discretion over pardon-related personnel decisions. Critics of political interference: Argue that such actions undermine the independence of the pardon office and could lead to corruption or favoritism in clemency decisions.

What to Watch

Judicial rulings on the motion to dismiss; the DOJ may argue the firing was a lawful exercise of executive authority.
Any congressional hearings or investigations into the pardon office’s handling of politically sensitive cases.
Whether other former officials come forward with similar allegations of pressure.

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