Law Students Rally Behind Susman Godfrey Against Trump’s Executive Order
In a significant display of support for the legal profession, over 1,100 law students have filed a court brief backing Susman Godfrey in its legal battle against an executive order issued by former President Donald Trump. The students contend that this order represents “government reprisal” against the firm for fulfilling its professional responsibilities.
Background of the Controversy
Prominent Biglaw firms, including Skadden and Paul Weiss, opted not to challenge the executive order, which critics label as likely unconstitutional. In contrast, Susman Godfrey has emerged as a leader among firms willing to stand up against such governmental actions. This resistance has garnered substantial attention and support, particularly from the next generation of legal practitioners.
Student Engagement and Reaction
The support from law students is not just a statement of solidarity with Susman Godfrey, but also a message to firms still taking a neutral stance. Brennan Caruthers, a third-year law student at the University of Texas School of Law who signed the brief, emphasized the importance of this issue: “This is something that students care about and could affect where they choose to practice law.”
The Broader Movement
This initiative is part of a growing movement among law students advocating for adherence to the rule of law. Previous actions include a Georgetown student group voicing their disapproval over Skadden’s approach to recruitment after their perceived lack of courage in confronting the executive order. Furthermore, UC Berkeley Law’s Dean Erwin Chemerinsky has encouraged students to consider a firm’s commitment to the rule of law when deciding where to apply for jobs.
Implications for Future Legal Careers
The involvement of these students indicates a shifting landscape in legal career choices, where ethical considerations may increasingly influence decisions about firm affiliation. It is likely we will see more Georgetown students gravitating toward firms like Susman Godfrey as they align their professional choices with their values.
For more detailed updates on this evolving situation, visit Reuters.
