The Daily
‘I Felt Ashamed.’ Why One Lawyer Resigned When His Firm Caved to Trump
Apr 7, 2025
Thomas Sipp, a former lawyer at Skadden Arps, shares his courageous decision to resign after the firm negotiated a controversial deal with President Trump. He discusses the ethical dilemmas faced by lawyers in politically charged environments and reveals feelings of betrayal among attorneys at elite firms. Sipp reflects on the importance of integrity, justice, and personal conviction, while recounting his transformative journey navigating issues of identity and the legal profession. His story highlights the challenges and responsibilities lawyers face when political interests collide with ethical standards.
35:49
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Quick takeaways
- Thomas Sipp's resignation from Skadden Arps illustrates the deep moral conflict lawyers face when their firms compromise ethical standards under political pressure.
- The podcast highlights the troubling trend of law firms capitulating to political influence, threatening the independence of the legal profession and public trust in justice.
Deep dives
Executive Orders and Big Law Firms
The episode addresses the recent executive orders issued by Donald Trump targeting several prominent law firms, particularly focusing on their involvement in legal actions against him or his administration. Trump's administration has pressured firms, such as Perkins Coie and Skadden Arps, effectively forcing them to negotiate settlements that align with his demands. These orders are perceived as attempts to punish firms that oppose him, raising concerns about ethical implications and the impact on the legal community. The narrative reveals an unsettling dynamic where law firms must navigate the threat of losing government contracts amidst these political pressures.
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