Michael Avenatti prevails as judge knocks down Cohen's attempt to impose gag order on case

Attorney Michael Avenatti will be allowed to continue his nearly ubiquitous cable TV appearances after a federal judge refused to "gag" the attorney battling Donald Trump on behalf of client Stephanie Clifford, the adult film star who goes by the stage name Stormy Daniels.

Avenatti posted on Twitter a copy of Judge James Otero's order denying the gag order.

In the gag order application, former Trump lawyer Michael Cohen cited "over 170 television appearances and 439 public tweets by Mr. Avenatti discussing facts and circumstances related to this case."

Particular attention was drawn to Avenatti's public comments that Cohen "has a history of thuggish behavior" and "is going to be indicted within the next three months."

The judge noted that Avenatti's media appearances would remain governed by existing rules.

"Mr. Avenatti must follow the Rules of Professional Conduct of the State Bar of California and the local rules of this Court," Judge Otero reminded. "If Mr. Avenatti's extrajudicial statements improperly violate these rules, he will be subject to discipline."