Elite Law Firms Bow to Trump: Pro Bono Deals Spark Legal Concerns in the U.S
Several prestigious law firms in the U.S. have entered into pro bono agreements with the Trump administration, committing to provide free legal services to avoid government sanctions. This practice raises concerns about judicial independence and potential ethical violations.
Elite Law Firms Bow to Trump: Pro Bono Deals Spark Legal Concerns in the U.S.
Several prestigious law firms in the U.S. have entered into pro bono agreements with the Trump administration, committing to provide free legal services to avoid government sanctions. This practice raises concerns about judicial independence and potential ethical violations.
In April 2025, President Donald Trump's administration entered into agreements with several elite law firms, including Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom; Milbank; and Paul Weiss. These agreements involve providing pro bono legal services totaling hundreds of millions of dollars for causes aligned with the government's priorities, such as defending police officers accused of misconduct and actions against corporate diversity policies.
These deals come amid a series of executive orders issued by Trump, threatening to revoke security clearances, restrict access to federal buildings, and cancel government contracts for firms representing causes opposing his administration.
Critics argue that such measures may compromise judicial independence and infringe upon ethical principles of the legal profession. Over 1,100 law students and 51 student organizations filed an amicus brief supporting the firm Susman Godfrey, which is suing the government for alleged political retaliation.
While some firms have opted for agreements to avoid sanctions, others, such as WilmerHale, Perkins Coie, and Jenner & Block, are legally challenging the government's actions, obtaining court rulings that temporarily halt the executive orders.