The federal charges filed against Judge Hannah Dugan are usually reserved for cases of companies misleading regulators, a review of records shows.

As Dugan's hearing approaches, litigators, judges and academics are talking about the implications of the case for the judiciary and what road map—if any—the case may provide as the Donald Trump administration continues its crackdown on illegal immigration and attacks on judges and law firms.

Judge Hannah Dugan will have a preliminary hearing in May. Her case would likely eventually go before a grand jury.