In the wake of President Trump’s unprecedented campaign targeting law firms, it’s clear that those who struck deals with the administration have not only faced widespread condemnation but also serious business setbacks.
From losing business, to boycotts from law students, to an exodus of partners and associates, these firms’ capitulation has backfired on them. Meanwhile, firms who have courageously fought back are winning in court and gaining new business.
These actions are highlighted in Demand Justice’s Big Law Cowards campaign, which calls out the law firms who cave to Trump’s unconstitutional attacks and urges them to stop capitulating to the Trump administration’s lawless demands.
As Justice Sotomayor, alluding to the unprecedented attacks on our democracy, recently said: “We need trained and passionate and committed lawyers to fight this fight.”
The choice is clear: any firm thinking about striking a deal should think twice — the consequences are severe.
Here is the latest on how law firms’ capitulation has backfired:
TALENT DRAIN – Historic law firm losing lawyers after deal with Trump
- After Cadwalader struck a deal with Trump last month they’ve seen an exodus of attorneys leaving the firm.
- According to reporting from the Wall Street Journal, the agreement is driving lawyers to leave the firm, frustrated that Cadwalader gave in to Trump instead of pushing back against what many saw as an unconstitutional executive order.
LOSING BUSINESS – Firms who bent the knee to Trump are losing clients
- The New York Times reported that Microsoft recently dropped Simpson Thacher (which settled with the administration) in favor of Jenner & Block, a firm actively challenging the administration’s attack.
- A senior partner at a firm who did not settle with Trump told the Times that they’re attracting clients away from firms that reached agreements with the White House, as clients lose confidence in firms perceived as not defending the rule of law.
LAW STUDENT BOYCOTTS – Students at top law schools are shunning firms who capitulated, in favor of those who took a principled stand
- Law students at elite law schools like Georgetown are thinking twice before seeking jobs at firms who struck deals, emphasizing that law firms should defend the rule of law.
- One student told Politico that major firms must “stand up to the bullies and preserve the integrity of our profession,” noting that pressure reveals true priorities.