In a surprising turn of events, President Donald Trump has reversed an executive order against a major law firm following significant concessions from the firm.
President Trump revoked an executive order targeting Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP after the firm agreed to halt certain diversity initiatives and donate $40 million in pro bono services to support government operations, BBC reported.
Paul, Weiss, a prominent law firm operating globally, initially faced the termination of federal contracts due to accusations by the Trump administration. These accusations claimed the firm's diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies conflicted with federal objectives.
The executive order targeting Paul Weiss was issued on March 14, creating significant controversy. Trump charged the firm with undermining the U.S. judicial system while also focusing on DEI strategies at odds with government aims.
On Thursday, after a consultation with Brad Karp, Chairman of Paul Weiss, the executive order was repealed. This decision came amid concerns from those within the legal field regarding political pressure influencing legal practices. Paul Weiss committed to an array of concessions, including avoiding DEI policies and emphasizing merit-based selection. Additionally, the firm pledged to contribute $40 million in legal services supporting the administration’s projects over President Trump's term.
Within the legal sphere, there has been a significant pushback against this agreement between Paul Weiss and President Trump. Marc Elias, a top Democratic lawyer, voiced his criticism, highlighting the perceived capitulation of the firm.
Marc Elias on Bluesky: Paul Weiss, didn't just bend a knee, it set a new standard for shameful capitulation. This is a stain on the firm, every one of its partners, and the entire legal profession.
Additional dissent arose from within the firm itself. Rachel Cohen, an employee, expressed her disapproval by announcing her resignation, contingent on how the firm handles the situation.
In 2023, Paul Weiss generated over $2 billion annually and employed more than 1,000 attorneys globally. This revenue places it among the top law firms worldwide.
The original executive order referred to a lawsuit initiated by one of the firm’s partners against individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol riot. It also mentioned Mark Pomerantz's participation in a legal case against Trump.
President Trump used his social media platform to announce the $40 million pro bono agreement, framing it as supportive of governmental initiatives throughout his presidency.
Brad Karp, leading Paul Weiss, expressed satisfaction with the conclusion reached between the firm and President Trump. He conveyed a wish for constructive interaction with the administration further along.
Brad Karp said: We are gratified that the President has agreed to withdraw the Executive Order concerning Paul, Weiss. We look forward to an engaged and constructive relationship with the President and his Administration.
An internal email from Karp described the arrangement as harmonizing with the firm's long-standing commitment to political independence. However, reactions from within the broader legal community suggest substantial disagreement with this stance. The reversal of President Trump’s order against Paul Weiss signifies a critical resolution following the firm's concessions. Despite this outcome, the legal community remains polarized over the decision's implications.
The accord marks not only a financial undertaking by Paul Weiss but also a shift in its operational practices concerning diversity policy. As Paul Weiss navigates this new terrain, the ramifications within legal circles are apparent and evolving. The story of Paul Weiss, much like the lawsuits mentioned in the original charges, encapsulates the complexities and intricacies of law, politics, and societal values intertwined.
