Last week, Willkie Farr & Gallagher joined a growing list of law firms reaching agreements with the White House, seemingly avoiding President Trump's disapproval. However, this deal, which involved a commitment of $100 million in legal services to causes favored by the Trump administration, has created new challenges for the firm.
The agreement has sparked significant criticism in recent days, including internal dissent. Concerns are growing regarding President Trump's broader actions targeting law firms.
The deal has drawn condemnation from prominent figures, including Doug Emhoff, a partner at Willkie and the husband of former Vice President Kamala Harris. Congressional Democrats have also requested details about the arrangement. Furthermore, Joseph T. Baio, a long-time lawyer at Willkie, resigned in protest.
In his resignation email to the firm's executive committee, Mr. Baio stated his intention to "join the fight against governmental tyranny, unconstitutional decrees and social injustice, particularly at this critical time.
7 Comments
Answer
I hope others at Willkie speak out. Silence is complicity.
The Truth
Embarrassing. This confirms my suspicions about the "establishment.
Answer
This is a smart move for ensuring financial security for the firm in the long run.
The Truth
Baio's comments about fighting 'tyranny' are spot on. This is a dangerous path.
Raphael
They're sacrificing their reputation for cash! What about their other clients and principles?
Michelangelo
This is a smart business move. They're securing a major client for the long term.
Donatello
So much for 'justice for all'. Seems like it's justice for those who pay.