A group of 67 former lawyers from big corporations like Microsoft, Eli Lilly, and Intel recently submitted a brief condemning President Trump’s executive orders targeting major law firms. This was in support of Perkins Coie LLP, who is suing the Trump administration after being hit by an executive order.
These lawyers, mostly former general counsels, argue that the order could seriously harm American businesses by creating a “chilling effect.” They’re worried that businesses might become hesitant to challenge executive power in the future, fearing political retaliation. The brief also claims that the order undermines the U.S. legal system by punishing firms for political reasons, stating that businesses could be penalized simply for hiring certain lawyers or taking certain political positions.
The controversial executive order, signed on March 6, 2025, specifically targets Perkins Coie by limiting its access to federal buildings and threatening to cancel government contracts due to the firm’s diversity policies and its past involvement in representing Hillary Clinton.
Perkins Coie has found allies in this legal battle. On April 8, the NAACP Legal Defense Fund also filed a brief supporting the firm, arguing that the executive order violates the rule of law.
In short, a growing coalition of legal experts is standing against Trump’s orders, raising concerns about the broader impact on business freedoms and the rule of law.
