In a major legal showdown, two U.S. judges have temporarily blocked key provisions of former President Donald Trump’s executive orders targeting the prestigious law firms Jenner & Block and WilmerHale. The ruling comes as the firms challenge the legality of Trump’s directives, which aimed to cut off their federal contracts and restrict access to government buildings. Meanwhile, another powerhouse firm, Skadden Arps, has struck a deal with the White House to avoid similar repercussions.
Judicial Pushback Against Trump’s Orders
On Friday, Washington-based U.S. District Judge John Bates called Trump’s order against Jenner & Block “reprehensible and disturbing.” He blocked provisions that sought to revoke federal contracts held by the firm’s clients and restrict its lawyers’ access to government offices, including federal courthouses.
Similarly, U.S. District Judge Richard Leon ruled that Trump’s directive against WilmerHale was retaliatory. He granted the firm’s request to suspend sections of the order limiting their access to government buildings and officials. However, he denied their plea to block the suspension of security clearances for firm attorneys.
Legal Firms Fight Back
Jenner & Block and WilmerHale wasted no time in taking legal action against Trump’s administration, arguing that his executive orders violated constitutional protections for free speech and due process.
“Our legal system depends on the ability of lawyers to advocate for their clients without fear of political retaliation,” Bates stated in his ruling. He also highlighted that Jenner & Block was seemingly targeted for its pro bono work supporting transgender individuals and immigrants.
Following the decision, Jenner & Block issued a statement: “The court has upheld the rule of law, recognizing that this executive order lacks legal weight.” WilmerHale echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the justice system from political interference.
Skadden’s Deal with the White House
Unlike the other firms, Skadden Arps opted for a different approach—negotiation. The firm agreed to provide $100 million worth of free legal services for causes that the White House supports, including veterans’ assistance. In return, Skadden avoided the penalties imposed on Jenner & Block and WilmerHale.
More Law Firms Under Fire?
Trump’s legal crackdown on major law firms is far from over. So far, he has issued executive orders against five firms, with three choosing to fight back through lawsuits. Judge Bates even hinted that more firms might be targeted soon. When asked if additional executive orders could be expected, a Justice Department attorney replied, “There certainly may be more.”
This isn’t the first time Trump’s orders have faced legal roadblocks. Earlier this month, a U.S. judge blocked a similar order against Perkins Coie, another firm that previously worked against Trump’s administration.
Political and Legal Ramifications
Trump’s aggressive stance against law firms that have challenged his administration has raised concerns within the legal community. Critics argue that these orders are a direct attack on legal professionals who oppose his policies.
Meanwhile, the White House defended Trump’s actions, stating that law firms had “weaponized the legal system” against the administration.
As legal battles continue to unfold, the fate of these executive orders—and their impact on the legal industry—remains uncertain. However, these rulings mark a significant pushback against Trump’s efforts to punish his political and legal adversaries.
