Paul Weiss, one of New York’s premier multinational law firms, has been among the first in line to defend White House actions. After President Donald Trump rescinded that executive order, they will now deliver a phenomenal $40 million in pro bono legal services. Following a meeting between Trump and Paul Weiss Chairman Brad Karp, that was the moment their decision was made. As a consequence, the enforcement order targeting the company was withdrawn.
Founded in 1875, Paul Weiss represents many high-profile clients and posted more than $2 billion in revenue in 2023. As noted by American Lawyer Magazine, the immense firm celebrates a staff of over 1,000 attorneys. Despite its success, the firm faced accusations from Trump of playing "an outsized role in undermining the judicial process" and discriminating against employees based on categories prohibited by civil rights laws.
"An outsized role in undermining the judicial process and in the destruction of bedrock American principles," Trump stated regarding Paul Weiss.
So in response to these accusations, Paul Weiss has already made a number of concessions. They promise to adopt “merit-based” hiring and promotion practices. Along with that, they promise to not implement any Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
"Will not adopt, use, or pursue any DEI policies," stated Paul Weiss.
The firm’s decision has led to outrage from all corners of the legal community. Rachel Cohen, a junior associate at Skadden Arps who resigned in protest, described the deal in a company-wide email as “lawyered up colonialism.”
"Please consider this email my two week notice, revocable if the firm comes up with a satisfactory response to the current moment," Cohen wrote.
Marc Elias, former partner at Perkins Coie, the famed “Resistance Law firm,” is now a prominent lawyer for Democrats. On the social media platform Bluesky, he tweeted his displeasure, accusing Paul Weiss of surrendering.
"Didn't just bend a knee, it set a new standard for shameful capitulation," Elias commented.
Despite the controversy, Paul Weiss has said they are pleased with the settlement they negotiated with the Trump administration. Firm Chair Brad Karp expressed optimism about the firm’s ongoing partnership with the White House.
"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," Karp stated.
Paul Weiss’ exceptional history of pro bono work spans over five decades. His most famous example was the successful lawsuit against the perpetrators of the January 6, 2021 insurrection at the US Capitol. This invitation came on the heels of Trump being found guilty by a jury last year of perpetrating a felony in connection to these riots.