Big Blow For Trump As Judge Richard J. Leon Makes This Ruling Against His Executive Order
U.S. District Judge Richard J. Leon struck down President Donald Trump’s executive order targeting the law firm WilmerHale, deeming it unconstitutional.
According to the Raw Story on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, the order, issued in March, had revoked security clearances for WilmerHale employees, canceled its government contracts, and barred its staff from federal buildings, accusing the firm of politicized legal practices due to its association with former Special Counsel Robert Mueller.
Judge Leon criticized the order as a retaliatory measure violating constitutional protections for free speech and professional independence.
He emphasized that the judiciary and legal profession’s independence is fundamental to democracy.
This decision marks the third consecutive legal victory for major law firms opposing similar Trump orders, with previous rulings in favor of Perkins Coie and Jenner & Block.
A case involving Susman Godfrey remains pending. WilmerHale responded by suing Trump, asserting the order was “unprecedented and unconstitutional.”
The firm retained Paul Clement to represent them and praised the court’s defense of constitutional rights.
The broader context reveals a pattern of executive pressure on legal institutions perceived as opposing the administration, prompting significant concern over the erosion of judicial independence.
Some targeted firms, such as Skadden and Milbank, avoided legal battles by agreeing to extensive pro bono work for the government.
The Daily BeastWhile the Trump administration, through spokesperson Harrison Fields, criticized the ruling, stating security clearance decisions fall within presidential authority, it remains uncertain if an appeal will be filed.
Business InsiderLegal experts have stated that Trump’s targeting of law firms is unprecedented and could intimidate lawyers from representing certain clients in the future.
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