Jenner & Block Faces Executive Order Challenges Following Rehiring of Andrew Weissmann
March 26, 2025, 9:16 am CDT
Andrew Weissmann, former lead prosecutor in the Mueller investigation, at the National Board of Review’s 2023 Awards Gala on January 8, 2023, in New York City. (Photo by John Nacion/STAR MAX/IPx via the Associated Press)
In a striking turn of events, Jenner & Block has been named in a recent executive order issued by President Donald Trump, marking it as the fourth large law firm to face government scrutiny due to its legal practices.
Details of the Executive Order
On March 25, the presidential order outlined several severe measures against the firm, which include:
- Suspension of security clearances held by Jenner & Block employees
- Restricted access for the firm’s personnel to government buildings
- Pursuit of termination for contracts held by the firm’s clients with the government
- A prohibition on federal hiring of Jenner & Block associates unless a waiver is granted
The order accused Jenner & Block of abandoning core professional ideals and engaging in what it termed “partisan lawfare,” undermining justice and the interests of the United States.
Criticism of Firm’s Practices
Specific criticisms within the order called attention to the firm’s diversity initiatives, its pro bono work on transgender and immigration issues, and notably, the rehiring of Andrew Weissmann. Weissmann had formerly been the lead prosecutor in the Mueller investigation, which was described as “entirely unjustified” in the order.
Weissmann’s return to Jenner & Block in April 2020, after a brief departure in 2021, has reportedly drawn significant ire from the administration. Currently, he serves as a professor at New York University School of Law.
Reactions from Jenner & Block
A spokesperson for Jenner & Block defended the firm, stating, “Jenner & Block has had a long history representing clients, paid and pro bono, in their most difficult matters since 1914. Today, we have been named in an executive order similar to one which has already been declared unconstitutional by a federal court. We remain focused on serving and safeguarding our clients’ interests with the dedication, integrity, and expertise that has defined our firm for more than 100 years and will pursue all appropriate remedies.”
Legal Context and Implications
The executive order has broader implications as other law firms—including Covington & Burling, Perkins Coie, and Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison—have also been targeted previously. Notably, Perkins Coie is currently embroiled in legal action against the order, where a federal judge suggested the firm has a strong case regarding First Amendment rights and due process violations.
As Jenner & Block navigates this challenging landscape, the firm seeks to maintain its longstanding commitment to its clients amidst political and legal turbulence.
For further developments on this topic, see coverage from Law.com and Reuters.
