Willkie Farr & Gallagher has reached a settlement with former President Donald Trump to prevent the loss of government contracts, following executive orders targeting law firms. This agreement mirrors similar ones made by Paul Weiss and Skadden Arps.
Announced on Trump’s Truth Social, the deal involves Willkie pledging $100 million in pro bono services to causes such as supporting veterans and combating antisemitism. These efforts will reflect a range of political views, including conservative ideals, according to the announcement.
In comparison, Skadden committed $100 million, while Paul Weiss pledged $40 million in pro bono services. The firms involved have higher gross revenues than others that challenged the executive orders in court, including WilmerHale, Jenner & Block, and Perkins Coie.
As part of the settlement, Willkie confirmed its dedication to merit-based employment practices and assured it would not refuse clients based on personal political beliefs. A memo from the firm’s executive committee emphasized that the deal aligned with existing firm activities and was the best option to protect stakeholders.
Executive orders targeting law firms sought to limit lawyers’ access to government security clearances and facilities, and reassess their clients’ government contracts.
Notably, Willkie partner Douglas Emhoff, husband of Vice President Kamala Harris, joined the firm in January. The firm has also been involved in high-profile legal matters, including representing Georgia election workers who won a defamation lawsuit against Rudy Giuliani.
Read more:
