Ripple vs SEC: Ex-SEC Lawyer Says XRP Lawsuit Will Be Long Over Before 2026

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The long-running legal battle between Ripple Labs and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has once again stirred debate, with many in the crypto community frustrated about how long it’s taking to wrap up. Even though experts believed the case was close to ending, recent online chatter shows that there’s still confusion, disagreement, and delays ahead.

On social media platform X (formerly Twitter), users began venting their frustration. One user sharply criticized Judge Analisa Torres, who is overseeing the case, saying she continues to delay the final steps.

But legal experts say it’s not that simple.

Former SEC Lawyer Clears Up Misunderstanding

Marc Fagel, a former SEC lawyer, responded to the complaints. He clarified that Judge Torres currently doesn’t have full authority over the case. According to Fagel, “She doesn’t even have jurisdiction at this point.” Since both Ripple and the SEC have filed appeals, the matter now lies with the court of appeals.

Fagel added that once both parties formally dismiss their appeals, which they appear to be planning,  the remedies ordered by Judge Torres, such as financial penalties against Ripple, will automatically go into effect.

Will the Case Last Until 2026?

Some are now speculating that the case could drag into 2026,  especially if new laws shift the SEC’s power or change how crypto is regulated. However, Fagel disagrees, saying the case will likely be over long before that. He said that even if laws change later, it won’t erase the court’s finding that Ripple broke the rules at the time of its actions.

When asked ‘Why has the SEC not released a statement regarding the case?’ Fagel said, “Because it typically takes 1-2 months for the SEC to authorize action. It’s only been a few weeks since the district court refused to modify its remedies, so it’ll take some time.