Willkie Farr Takes a Strategic Position in Response to Political Pressures
In a significant move earlier today, the prominent law firm Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP responded to the threat of potential Executive Orders from the Trump administration by committing $100 million in pro bono services aligned with conservative ideals. This action follows a trend observed among other major firms like Paul Weiss and Skadden, which have also made similar concessions amidst mounting political pressures.
Context of the Decision
The firm has faced scrutiny due to its recent hires, including former Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff, as well as its representation of clients who oppose far-right interests, specifically Georgia poll workers Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss—a pivotal element in the backlash against Rudy Giuliani post-January 6th.
Reactions Within the Firm
Reports suggest that the announcement of this agreement caught many partners at Willkie off guard. Some associates have expressed dissatisfaction, indicative of a brewing discontent similar to that observed in other law firms that made comparable commitments. This situation raises the potential for significant personnel changes if dissent continues.
Details of the Executive Committee’s Communication
Dear All Colleagues,
We learned that the President intended to issue an Executive Order targeting Willkie similar to the orders issued against multiple firms in the past weeks, threatening to imperil our clients’ rights and those of our Firm.
We were invited to contact the Administration on Sunday, and they outlined a proposed alternative to receiving an Executive Order. After determining that the three principles on which an agreement would be based are consistent with our Firm’s longstanding practices, we engaged in discussions to see if an acceptable resolution could be reached.
While the agreement ultimately reached with the Administration focuses on activities that are already in place at our Firm, similar agreements at peer firms have been publicly criticized, and there is heightened conversation across our industry as law firms grapple with the consequences of potential Executive Orders and the impact for their clients, their employees and their businesses. In making this difficult decision, we concluded, after due consideration of the implications of each possible course of action, that accepting the Administration’s final proposal was the path that best serves our clients’ needs and protects the Firm’s various stakeholders, avoiding potentially grave consequences.
As mentioned above, the agreement has three principles. First, we will continue to follow the law related to our employment practices. Second, we will continue to represent clients on both sides of the aisle and with a wide range of ideological views. Third, we will continue to represent underrepresented individuals and groups that are not only important to the Administration, but to Willkie—this includes veterans, Gold Star families, and victims of religious discrimination. These are all longstanding practices at Willkie, so the agreement does not require us to change course.
We know this news is not welcomed by some of you and you would have urged a different course of action. Needless to say, this was an incredibly difficult decision for Firm leadership.
If you receive questions from clients, please direct them to the appropriate relationship partner. Should you receive an inquiry from the media or another third party, please do not respond and send the information to [the firm’s chief marketing officer].
Thank you for your continued hard work and dedication to the Firm and our clients.
The Executive Committee
Looking Forward
As Willkie Farr & Gallagher navigates this complex situation, attorneys and employees are encouraged to share their thoughts regarding the firm’s recent decision. Insights can be communicated via email or social media channels, ensuring that all voices within the firm are heard as it moves forward amidst a politically charged climate.
