Two prominent law firms have filed lawsuits against the Trump administration, aiming to block recent executive orders that they argue unjustly target their representation of clients and extensive pro bono work.
The lawsuit from Jenner & Block, submitted to a federal district court in Washington, D.C., alleges violations of the First Amendment rights to free speech and association. Additionally, it claims the order infringes on the due process protections provided by the Fifth Amendment, adversely affecting the firm’s ability to operate, and undermines the attorney-client relationship protected by the Sixth Amendment.
WilmerHale has also initiated legal action, arguing that the executive orders signed by Trump penalize the firm for employing former Special Counsel Robert Mueller and other public officials associated with him.
The WilmerHale lawsuit further asserts that the orders retaliate against the firm for its representation of the Democratic National Committee and political figures such as Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, as well as for suing the administration over the termination of several inspectors general.
These legal challenges arise in the wake of President Trump’s recent executive actions, which attempt to limit both firms’ access to federal facilities, revoke security clearances for their personnel, and instruct government employees to refrain from engaging with the firms or their members.
“For more than 100 years, Jenner has tirelessly advocated for its clients against all adversaries, including against unlawful government action,” reads the lawsuit. “With this suit, the Firm once again commits to that charge. To do otherwise would compromise Jenner’s ability to advocate for its clients and yield to unconstitutional government pressure.”
Jenner & Block, which has a workforce of around 500 lawyers, is known for its strong pro bono initiatives that support various marginalized groups, including immigrants and LGBTQ individuals. The firm has faced scrutiny from Trump, particularly regarding its past employment of Andrew Weissmann, a significant figure in the special counsel investigation.
Jenner seeks for the case to be presided over by Judge Beryl Howell, who previously blocked enforcement of a similar order involving another law firm, Perkins Coie. Despite attempts by the Justice Department to disqualify her, Judge Howell characterized these moves as attempts to intimidate the judicial system.
Trump Accused of Undermining Legal Principles
Hours before WilmerHale’s court appearance, Trump moved against the firm.
A spokesperson for WilmerHale stated, “The executive order targeting our firm is an outright assault on fundamental legal principles—specifically our clients’ right to counsel and First Amendment rights.” They have requested immediate legal relief to safeguard their clients’ rights.
WilmerHale is represented by former Solicitor General Paul Clement, a prominent figure in conservative legal circles. In court filings, Clement argued that the executive order violates the separation of powers and contended Trump’s lack of authority to sanction a law firm for representing political adversaries or managing lawsuits that contradict his interests.
While two other law firms have sought resolutions with the White House after being targeted by similar executive orders, Jenner has reiterated its commitment to “resist unconstitutional government coercion.”
