Attorney General Jennifer Davenport co-led a coalition of 21 attorneys general in filing an amicus brief on Apr. 3 in the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals, supporting four law firms that were sanctioned by President Trump through executive orders issued in 2025.
The case centers on executive actions taken against Jenner & Block LLP, Perkins Coie LLP, Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale LLP, and Susman Godfrey LLP. The law firms are challenging these orders as unconstitutional retaliation for their legal work and advocacy on issues disfavored by the Trump Administration.
“It is darkly ironic, frankly, that during America’s 250th anniversary, President Trump is continuing his crusade to rip apart the very foundations of the rule of law embedded in the Constitution,” said Attorney General Davenport. “The legal profession depends on attorneys being able to represent clients independent of political pressure. If this isn’t true, and law firms can’t practice without fear of being punished by the President, what remains of the rule of law? We must fight back.”
According to court filings and statements from Davenport’s office, Trump’s executive orders required federal officials to suspend security clearances for individuals at these firms and barred engagement or hiring with their employees. The measures also denied firm personnel entry to federal buildings and directed contractors to disclose business ties so agencies could terminate contracts with them.
Four district judges have found these actions unconstitutional for retaliating against protected viewpoints under the First Amendment. The amici states argue that lawyers’ ability to represent clients without fear is vital for justice and democracy—a principle threatened if such orders stand.
The New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin aims to protect residents’ lives and property while upholding legal standards across all counties according to its official website. The agency provides state legal representation, oversight over enforcement activities including crime labs and victim advocacy services statewide according to its official site.
Davenport was joined in leading this effort by Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul, Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell, Washington Attorney General Nick Brown, as well as attorneys general from several other states. Their brief argues that allowing such executive actions would make it harder for many people—especially those relying on pro bono services—to access legal representation.
Looking ahead, the coalition urges the Court of Appeals to affirm lower court rulings striking down these executive orders as unconstitutional.