Overview

• U.S. District Judge Richard Leon on May 27 struck down the March 27 order targeting WilmerHale, ruling it unconstitutional and barring federal enforcement.
• Leon concluded the order violated free speech, due process and equal protection, marking the third district court decision against similar orders.
• WilmerHale sued the administration with former Solicitor General Paul Clement representing the firm and highlighting its connection to Robert Mueller’s Russia probe.
• The Justice Department has defended the orders as lawful exercises of presidential authority and now has the option to appeal Leon’s decision to the D.C. Circuit.
• More than 500 law firms filed amicus briefs condemning the orders, while nine large firms including Paul Weiss and Latham & Watkins pledged nearly $1 billion in pro bono services to avoid enforcement.