When powerful law firms don’t defend themselves against Trump, with ex-Skadden associate Rachel Cohen
Apr 8, 2025
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Rachel Cohen, a former Skadden Arps attorney, left the firm in protest against its dealings with the Trump administration. She shares her dramatic experience of advocating for ethical legal practices against political pressure. The conversation dives into the legal industry's role in upholding the rule of law, the challenges of navigating moral dilemmas in a high-stakes environment, and the tension between financial gains and ethical principles. Cohen's story raises urgent questions about corporate accountability and the need for solidarity among lawyers.
Rachel Cohen's struggle at Skadden Arps exemplifies the tension between personal ethics and corporate interests in powerful law firms.
The compliance of law firms with the Trump administration raises significant ethical concerns that could jeopardize integrity and diversity in the legal profession.
Deep dives
The Impact of Law Firms on the Economy
Law firms, particularly large and prestigious ones, play a significant role in the economy and the functioning of American democracy, serving as advisors to major corporations and government bodies. These firms not only influence important legal decisions but also shape public policy through their actions and affiliations. The recent tensions between prestigious law firms and the Trump administration illustrate how law firms can become targets due to their perceived stance on political issues, thereby affecting their operations and reputations. Rachel Cohen's experience highlights the precarious position these firms hold, as their business choices can lead to broader economic repercussions and impact their relationships with various stakeholders.
Individual Actions Within Corporate Structures
Rachel Cohen's experience at Skadden Arps emphasizes the challenges faced by individuals within powerful organizations when addressing moral and ethical concerns. Faced with the Trump administration's actions, Cohen attempted to mobilize her colleagues to respond collectively, viewing this as essential for upholding the rule of law. However, her efforts were met with resistance from management, illustrating the difficulty of fostering collective action in an environment characterized by fear of retaliation and job security concerns. This situation reflects the broader issue of how employees in high-stakes environments can navigate tension between personal beliefs and corporate interests.
Consequences of Compliance and Business Ethics
The decision by firms like Paul Weiss to comply with the Trump administration’s demands raised critical questions about the ethical implications of such alignments in the legal profession. The agreements made by these firms, including significant pro bono commitments to the administration, sparked fears about the broader consequences for diversity and inclusion within the industry. By prioritizing business relationships over moral standpoints, these law firms risk setting dangerous precedents that may undermine their integrity and the principles of justice. This scenario sheds light on the essential nature of ethics in business practices and the potential long-term ramifications of compromising values for short-term gains.
Many prominent law firms have recently found themselves in President Trump’s crosshairs. Skadden Arps’ attorney, Rachel Cohen, encouraged the firm to fight the government’s pressure, only to have her attempts rebuffed and to be effectively forced out from the firm. Cohen joins Rapid Response to share her dramatic story, and fears about how the rule of law is changing in America. Rachel’s experience raises questions about the legal industry’s role in the checks and balances of the US system, and how leaders everywhere navigate the relationship between their business and broader society.
