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Ex- Federal Bureau of Investigation director James the former director has pleaded not guilty to providing misleading information to congressional representatives and hindering a congressional proceeding.

His lawyer filed the response on his behalf in a US district court in Alexandria, Virginia on mid-week.

Patrick Fitzgerald stated he would seek to have the case dismissed for several reasons including that his the accused, a opponent of President Donald Trump, was being singled out.

Mr Comey was indicted just days after Trump urged his attorney general to move forward against him.

Judicial Process

In court on mid-week, Comey's lawyer Mr Fitzgerald advised the court they intended to file several legal requests to throw out the legal matter before a legal hearing, claiming the prosecution was vindictive and that a government lawyer was improperly appointed to assume control of the legal matter.

James Comey's legal matter was first handled by Erik Siebert, who stepped down under influence from the former president after his examination into a different rival - NY AG Letitia James - failed to initiate prosecution.

Legal Setting

Mr Comey came across in good spirits as he entered the legal venue on mid-week, chatting with his attorneys and sharing humor. He was supported by his partner, Patrice Failor and child Maureen, a federal prosecutor who the previous administration terminated.

Following the reading to the judge read his legal protections and the dual charges against him in the courtroom on Wednesday, Mr Comey was questioned if he comprehended the accusations.

"Yes your honour. Thank you," he stated to the judge.

Historical Information

Mr Comey was the FBI Director from 2013-2017 and was dismissed about four months into Donald Trump's first administration as president. At the moment, Mr Comey was directing an examination into international campaign influence and whether there were any links between Moscow and the presidential campaign.

While in office, the director triggered a counter-response from Democrats when he declared just days before the 2016 presidential election that he was investigating Democratic candidate the candidate's use of a private email server. Indictments against the candidate were not pursued, resulting in disapproval from Republicans as well.

Ongoing Accusations

Government attorneys allege James Comey gave untrue statements to the legislature during a congressional hearing in recent years when he was being examined about both the Clinton investigation as well as the election interference investigation. They claim he deceived the upper house by stating he had not authorized someone at the Federal Bureau of Investigation to disclose to journalistic entities information about the government examinations.

Legal representatives also allege James Comey of "wrongfully trying to affect, obstruct and impede" the committee by providing untrue information to it.

Public Statements

Via social media Mr Comey shared to his Instagram after he was charged, he declared he was not guilty and alleged Donald Trump of acting like a "tyrant".

"Our household have understood for years that there are costs to opposing Mr Trump," he said. "We will not live on our knees."

"I'm innocent," he stated further. "Therefore proceed with a legal proceeding."

These allegations against Mr Comey surfaced after Donald Trump posted on online platforms insisting on his chief prosecutor, the attorney general, take legal action against Mr Comey and additional individuals.