On May 1, 2025, attorneys across California rallied in defense of judicial independence as part of the national Law Day of Action. In cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Sacramento, lawyers gathered to oppose the Trump administration’s attacks on the judiciary, chanting slogans like “Hands off our courts” and reaffirming their oath to uphold the Constitution.
Speakers, including public officials and law firm leaders, denounced executive orders targeting law firms and urged lawyers to defend due process and the rule of law. San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu likened the legal fight to battling a “Death Star,” while retired Judge Ladoris Hazzard Cordell reminded lawyers that their oath is a public promise to uphold justice. Protesters also criticized Big Law firms like Simpson Thacher for striking deals with the administration and praised others, like Keker Van Nest and Munger Tolles, for their public opposition.
The rallies highlighted growing unease in the legal profession as the Trump administration pressures firms and courts, with attorneys calling for solidarity and action to protect democracy and legal ethics.