Former FBI Director James Comey has pleaded not guilty to charges of lying to lawmakers and violating congressional order.

The former FBI director, represented by his attorney, pleaded not guilty in a federal court in Alexandria, Virginia.

His lawyer, Patrick Fitzgerald, said his client was being targeted for being a critic of President Donald Trump, among other reasons.

James Comey was indicted just days after President Trump ordered the Attorney General to take action.

Following their lawyer's request for a speedy trial, the judge set a date for January 5 a few months later.

However, prosecutors and defense attorneys said the trial would last two to three days.

Comey was fired while investigating Russian election interference and possible ties between Moscow and the Trump campaign.

James Comey has become a vocal critic of Donald Trump since his dismissal from government duties.