Trump Targets Big Law: Executive Orders Spark Legal Backlash.

President Donald Trump has escalated his crackdown on major law firms, issuing two executive orders that target legal giants representing his political opponents. His administration has also launched an investigation into diversity policies within large firms, sending shockwaves through the legal industry.

Trump’s Executive Orders Target Big Law

In the past two weeks, the White House has issued executive orders against two major firms:

• Covington & Burling, which represents special counsel Jack Smith, who oversaw federal criminal cases against Trump.
• Perkins Coie, known for representing Hillary Clinton during the 2016 presidential race.

One order suspended the security clearances of lawyers from both firms and initiated a government contract review to determine whether those firms should continue receiving federal work. Trump directed agencies to "take appropriate steps to terminate any contract" with Perkins Coie.

Additionally, the second order instructed Attorney General Pam Bondi to investigate alleged racial discrimination at major law firms, particularly diversity policies that “reserve roles for preferred races.”

White House Justification vs. Legal Industry Backlash

According to the Trump administration, these moves are meant to curb “the abuse of power by partisan actors who exploit their positions for political gain.” However, critics argue that these actions violate judicial independence and the rule of law.

Legal Experts Raise Concerns

• Daniel Richman, a professor at Columbia Law School, called the measures “extraordinary moves” designed to intimidate law firms into reconsidering the clients they represent.
• Bruce MacEwen, president of New York law consultancy Adam Smith, Esq., warned that blacklisted firms could face financial damage from lost contracts and clients.
• Barbara McQuade, a professor at University of Michigan Law School, said the orders likely violate the First Amendment, which protects freedom of association.

The American Bar Association (ABA) strongly condemned the orders, stating:

“Clients have the right to have access to their lawyer without interference by the government.”

The ABA further warned that government actions should not be used to intimidate law firms or tilt the scales of justice.

Perkins Coie Fights Back With Lawsuit

In response to the orders, Perkins Coie filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, arguing that the measures are “unlawful” and violate free speech and due process protections.

In a surprising move, Williams & Connolly, a high-profile Washington law firm, has taken on Perkins Coie’s case. Analysts believe this signals strong resistance from the legal community.

“Williams is deservedly known for its forceful litigation,” said Daniel Richman. “I expect to see that here.”

Trump Administration Defends Its Actions

In response to the lawsuit, the White House dismissed Perkins Coie’s claims, stating:

“It is absurd that a billion-dollar law firm is suing to retain its access to government perks and handouts.”

The administration also accused Covington & Burling of playing a role in “the weaponization of the judicial process” and Perkins Coie of contributing to a “false dossier designed to steal an election.”

What’s Next?

While Trump’s executive orders could reshape how major law firms operate, legal experts predict a fierce court battle ahead. The lawsuit by Perkins Coie could set a major precedent regarding government interference in private legal representation.

For now, the legal industry remains on high alert, watching how this unprecedented crackdown unfolds.