Legal Community Unites Against Executive Orders Targeting Biglaw Firms
Recent executive orders issued by former President Donald Trump have ignited a passionate response from the legal
community, particularly among prominent law firms. These orders, perceived as unconstitutional by many, have sparked a wave of legal challenges from firms including Perkins Coie, Jenner & Block, WilmerHale, and Susman Godfrey. Their actions indicate a larger concern regarding the impact of these orders on the rule of law itself.
Widespread Support for Legal Challenges
As part of their legal endeavors, these firms have garnered substantial backing, particularly in the Perkins Coie case, which has
attracted attention due to the submission of 23 amicus briefs. Various stakeholders—including law firms, former judges, national security advisors, solo practitioners, in-house counsel, legal scholars, media organizations, NGOs, the NAACP Legal Defense fund, bar associations, and attorneys general—have all chimed in to advocate against these orders.
Voices from the Future of Law
Amid the ongoing legal discourse, the firm Kline & Specter has taken initiative by drafting an amicus brief in support of the Susman Godfrey case. This brief represents law students who contend that the executive orders, if not challenged, will inflict lasting harm on the legal profession’s integrity and on the future of those entering the field.
“Left alone, the executive order signals a transformation of our legal system. The rules don’t matter anymore. Neither does due process. What matters is being in the good graces of those in power. One might wonder whether law even will matter when amici graduate. Which begs a question: If law doesn’t matter, why should anyone become a lawyer in the first place?”
A Call to Biglaw Firms
This poignant statement reflects a growing sentiment among aspiring lawyers, emphasizing the urgency for established firms to heed the concerns of legal students and consider the potential ramifications of political influence over the legal system. The prevailing message is clear: more engagement from Biglaw firms is necessary to ensure the future integrity of the legal profession.
About the Author
Kathryn Rubino serves as a Senior Editor at Above the Law and hosts The Jabot podcast while also co-hosting Thinking Like A Lawyer. For tips, questions, or comments, Kathryn welcomes readers to reach out via email or connect with her on Twitter or Mastodon.
