A federal judge issued a temporary restraining order Monday allowing Calvin Duncan, a recently exonerated man, to assume his elected position as clerk of New Orleans' criminal district courthouse despite a new Louisiana law eliminating the office.

Duncan, a Democrat, overwhelmingly won election to the New Orleans-based clerk position in recent elections. He had been scheduled to take office on Monday as planned, but the Louisiana legislature passed legislation eliminating the elected position just days before his inauguration.

The temporary restraining order ensures Duncan can begin his duties as clerk while legal proceedings continue. However, the long-term future of his tenure remains uncertain as the case moves through the courts.

Duncan's background as an exoneree adds significance to the case, as he previously spent time wrongfully incarcerated before his conviction was overturned. His election victory was described as overwhelming, suggesting strong voter support in the New Orleans area.

The timing of the legislative action, coming just days before Duncan was set to assume office, has raised questions about the motivations behind eliminating the position. The clerk of criminal district court handles administrative functions for the local court system.

The case represents a clash between state legislative authority and local electoral outcomes, with federal courts now weighing in on the dispute over the future of the position.