Opening Arguments Big Law Firm Paul Weiss Caved to Trump's Bogus Order in 4 Days. It Was Cowardly and Inexcusable.
8 snips
Mar 28, 2025 Liz Skeen, a former NYC Biglaw associate turned public defender, discusses the alarming impact of Donald Trump's recent executive orders on law firms. She reveals how a leading firm quickly capitulated to these demands, raising ethical concerns about legal compliance under political pressure. The conversation addresses the repercussions for immigration lawyers, drawing unsettling parallels to historical fascism. Skeen emphasizes the urgent need for principled advocacy in a time when the legal landscape is fraught with threats to justice and integrity.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Covington Targeted
- Trump's executive order targeting Covington & Burling was so shocking that Liz Skeen contacted someone at the firm.
- The order was astonishing because Covington is a prominent law firm.
Perkins Coie's Response
- Perkins Coie hired Williams & Connolly, known for their defense work and avoidance of former prosecutors, to challenge Trump's executive order.
- Judge Beryl Howell thanked them for their service, acknowledging the seriousness of the situation.
Paul Weiss Capitulates
- Paul Weiss, despite a history of progressive values, capitulated to Trump's demands without a fight.
- Chairman Brad Karp flew to DC on a private jet and negotiated an agreement with the Trump administration.