Trump’s Legal Attacks: How They’re Impacting Pro Bono Work for Unpopular Causes

Since late February, former President Donald Trump has been using his presidential powers to target law firms he believes are misusing the justice system against him. This move is part of his broader campaign against perceived political adversaries.

The situation is alarming. Trump’s actions, including executive orders against certain law firms, appear to intimidate lawyers who represent clients that oppose his policies. Many of these firms have lawyers who participated in investigations like Robert Mueller’s inquiry into Russian interference in the 2016 election.

Lourdes Rosado, president and general counsel of LatinoJustice PRLDEF, highlights the serious implications of this tactic. "I’ve never seen an administration target firms for their case selection," she says. This could stifle lawyers from taking on pro bono cases that challenge the government’s actions, creating a chilling effect in legal advocacy.

More than 180 federal lawsuits have been filed against the Trump administration, according to data from Just Security, with major law firms lending support to advocacy groups. This pro bono work often includes vital resources such as attorney support for legal research or financial assistance for court costs.

However, some law firms are already feeling the pressure. Attorneys at organizations that regularly collaborate with big law firms express concerns that they might withdraw from politically sensitive cases. Dustin Rynders, legal director of the Texas Civil Rights Project, notes that political considerations are influencing law firms’ decisions on which cases to take, particularly in areas like immigrant and civil rights. "We are already seeing a decline in support for cases challenging the administration," he says.

If this trend continues, it could result in fewer challenges to government actions that may infringe on constitutional rights. Jennifer Levi from GLAD Law points out that the implications extend beyond any one issue. "This isn’t just about progressive causes. It’s about whether the legal system can function as it should."

Some firms are not backing down. Four of the targeted law firms have sued the Trump administration, resulting in temporary blocks on some of the punitive measures from his executive orders. Levi emphasizes that if the legal profession does not resist these threats, the concept of equal justice could be at risk.

In this complex landscape, the ongoing conversation about political interference in the legal profession continues to unfold. It is a critical moment, not only for law firms but also for the integrity of the legal system itself.

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