
Amicus With Dahlia Lithwick | Law, justice, and the courts
Michael Cohen and the Trump Lawyers Who Get Burned
Aug 10, 2024
Michael Cohen, former attorney for Donald Trump and whistleblower, joins to discuss the precarious legal landscape faced by Trump’s lawyers. He reveals Trump's history of underpaying attorneys and the ethical dilemmas they encounter. Danya Perry, Cohen’s current attorney, sheds light on why lawyers continue to represent Trump despite significant risks. The conversation also touches on the erosion of legal ethics amidst political tensions and explores Cohen's personal journey from loyalty to regret regarding his past associations.
04:54
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Quick takeaways
- Donald Trump's litigation strategy illustrates a manipulative use of the legal system to maintain personal influence and mitigate costs.
- Michael Cohen's trajectory highlights the dangers of blind loyalty in complex legal environments, ultimately leading to devastating personal repercussions.
Deep dives
The Legal Playbook of Donald Trump
Donald Trump's approach to litigation is characterized by frequent lawsuits and a strategic use of the legal system for personal gain. Historically, Trump has been willing to exploit the law to enhance his brand and minimize costs, often paying lawyers far less than standard fees. This pattern can be traced back to his relationship with Roy Cohn, his early attorney, who exemplified a style of aggressive legal maneuvering. Trump’s inclination to engage in legal battles aligns with a broader trend where he perceives the legal process as a tool for asserting his influence and maintaining control.
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