Paul Weiss, a powerful law firm, agreed to provide $40 million in free legal work for causes supported by President Trump and eliminate internal diversity, equity, and inclusion policies. In response, Trump rescinded an executive order targeting the firm. This move shocked many in the legal community. Rachel Cohen, an associate at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP, resigned unless the firm took a stand against the Trump administration’s actions targeting DEI programs. Cohen believes that a “coup” is happening and felt compelled to take action to protect the rule of law. However, she recognizes the challenges of resisting a rapidly moving administration.
Cohen’s resignation and Paul Weiss’ decision have raised concerns among lawyers, who fear similar actions from the administration. Many lawyers are reluctant to speak out due to commercial interests and fear of retribution. There have been discussions about a joint stand against Trump, but no concrete action has been taken. George Conway emphasized that law firms have a moral duty to defend the system that has allowed them to thrive financially.
At the Justice Department, attorneys are facing pressure to work on cases aligned with Trump’s priorities or risk losing their jobs. Mark Zaid expressed anger and sadness over the situation, comparing the targeting of law firms to Shakespeare’s “Henry VI,” where lawyers were seen as a threat to authoritarian power. Overall, the legal community is grappling with the need to balance commercial interests with moral obligations in the face of the Trump administration’s actions.
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