Nearly five months after nine major U.S. law firms struck deals with former President Donald Trump—pledging a collective $940 million in free legal services—the impact remains unclear.
Some firms continue to take cases opposing Trump’s agenda, with Milbank lawyers fighting administration tariffs and immigration policies. Paul Weiss, the first firm to sign a deal, has pressed forward with lawsuits against the Proud Boys despite being targeted by Trump in executive orders. Four firms that challenged those orders in court won rulings striking them down as unconstitutional.
The agreements, loosely defined and in some cases unsigned, have left firms navigating legal and reputational risks while trying not to alienate clients. Trump has hinted at enlisting firms for work on tariffs, coal mining, and defending law enforcement officers, while firms like Kirkland & Ellis have quietly advised on U.S. trade deals.
Meanwhile, firms have scrubbed diversity initiatives from their websites and seen notable lawyer departures. Critics argue the arrangements blur professional ethics, while supporters note the deals may provide valuable experience. For now, the jury is still out on whether these agreements will reshape the legal industry—or fade into obscurity.