This federal court opinion permanently enjoins an executive order issued by President Donald Trump that targeted Susman Godfrey LLP, a prominent U.S. law firm. The order had accused the firm of undermining American interests due to its clients and causes, including representation of Dominion Voting Systems and support for DEI initiatives.
In its ruling, the District Court for D.C. found the order unconstitutional, citing violations of the First and Fifth Amendments and the separation of powers. The court emphasized that government retaliation based on viewpoint or legal representation is incompatible with democratic norms. Similar orders against other firms were also struck down, and the American Bar Association has filed a broader lawsuit against what it terms the “Law Firm Intimidation Policy.”
This opinion is part of a larger judicial response rejecting executive overreach and defending legal advocacy and free expression under the Constitution.