Judge Rejects Trump’s Retaliation Against Law Firm⁣ Over Mueller Probe

​ Updated May 28, 2025

A federal judge has dismissed Donald Trump’s attempt to punish a prominent law firm⁣ for employing Robert Mueller following his examination into Russian interference in the 2016 ⁤election. Judge Richard Leon ⁤issued a scathing 73-page rebuke of⁢ the former president’s executive order targeting WilmerHale.

Leon deemed the executive​ order unconstitutional. He emphasized the importance of an independent judiciary and legal profession willing to take on⁢ challenging ⁢cases. The judge used multiple exclamation points to underscore his points in the detailed rejection of Trump’s order,which aimed to restrict WilmerHale’s access to federal buildings,suspend security​ clearances,and terminate government contracts.

The⁤ Trump administration had‌ argued that the executive order did not ⁤considerably impact WilmerHale’s business.‌ Leon dismissed this claim, calling it “absurd.” He asserted​ that the⁣ order punishes the firm⁣ for protected speech and⁤ hinders its ability to​ represent clients effectively. According‍ to Leon,the order‌ sends a‌ clear⁣ message that taking on causes disliked by Trump will result in ⁤punishment.

Leon sided with ⁣WilmerHale’s argument that the executive order violated ‌the separation of powers by ‍infringing on judicial authority. He stated that the order carries a meaningful risk of arbitrary ⁣enforcement.

⁢ “The cornerstone of the American system of justice is an independent judiciary and an⁢ independent bar willing to ⁢tackle unpopular cases,however daunting. The Founding Fathers knew this!” said Judge Leon.
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“The Order shouts ⁢through a bullhorn: If you take on causes disfavored by President Trump, you will be punished!”⁢ Leon wrote.

What’s ​next

The ruling prevents the executive order from being enforced, allowing WilmerHale to continue its work without the restrictions imposed by the Trump administration.