Legal Industry in Uproar: Paul Weiss' Deal with Trump Sparks Controversy

Paul Weiss Chairman Brad Karp's agreement with former President Donald Trump to circumvent an executive order caused an uproar in the legal sector. Karp's decision, seen as a surrender, followed Trump's orders against firms associated with his political adversaries. The firm chose compliance over litigation, unlike Perkins Coie.

Paul Weiss Chairman Brad Karp struck a controversial deal with former U.S. President Donald Trump to sidestep an executive order that threatened the firm's business, igniting widespread condemnation within the legal industry. Trump's directive, targeting Paul Weiss and other major firms, cited their ties to his political adversaries and internal diversity policies.

Over 100 former Paul Weiss attorneys criticized the firm for yielding to what they viewed as a loyalty test imposed by Trump. In contrast, Perkins Coie launched a lawsuit challenging the executive order's legality. Meanwhile, Paul Weiss, under Karp's leadership, pledged $40 million in pro bono work to support causes aligned with the administration.

This unprecedented conflict between political power and the legal profession raises ethical questions about client representation and law firms' independence. Several legal firms, including Keker Van Nest and Selendy Gay, voiced their support for Perkins Coie. The ongoing legal challenges to Trump's order highlight the tensions between executive authority and fundamental legal principles.

(With inputs from agencies.)