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.

“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.