On Monday, June 16, in Washington, D.C., the American Bar Association filed a lawsuit against President Donald Trump’s administration, challenging a series of executive directives aimed at pressuring and penalizing certain law firms as unconstitutional. The lawsuit arose after Trump issued orders banning firms like Paul, Weiss and others from federal contracts and buildings, demanding compliance through punitive sanctions.
Judges blocked these orders, granting permanent injunctions to Perkins Coie, Jenner & Block, WilmerHale, and temporary relief to Susman, while some firms settled by pledging pro bono services.
U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell indicated that the orders imply attorneys are expected to align strictly with the party’s stance or face consequences, while nine firms committed nearly $1 billion in pro bono legal services to prevent sanctions.
The lawsuit highlights an effect on law firms’ independence and public interest work, warning that unchecked executive coercion threatens the rule of law and free speech.
