Consider This from NPR Big law in Trump's crosshairs
15 snips
Apr 12, 2025 Ryan Lucas, NPR's Justice Correspondent, discusses the dramatic impact of President Trump's executive orders on major law firms. He reveals how some firms have confronted these orders head-on, while others have sought compromises to survive. The conversation dives into the climate of fear surrounding legal advocacy and highlights a rift in the legal community. Lucas emphasizes the pressing need for clear communication in legal reporting, especially during tumultuous political times, to ensure public understanding of these complex issues.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Targeted Law Firms
- Sussman Godfrey represented Dominion Voting Systems in a defamation case against Fox News.
- Other firms targeted by Trump had represented Hillary Clinton's campaign or worked on the Mueller investigation.
Impact on Pro Bono Work
- Trump's actions are creating a climate of fear among law firms, potentially deterring them from taking on politically sensitive pro bono cases.
- This could lead to fewer challenges against potentially unconstitutional government actions.
Law Firms' Responses
- Some firms, like Paul Weiss, cut deals with Trump, providing pro bono work for causes he supports to avoid being targeted.
- This has exposed a divide within big law, with some criticizing firms for not defending the legal profession.