Judge Strikes Down Trump’s Order Against WilmerHale

A federal judge in Washington, D.C. on May 27, 2025, struck down an executive order from President Trump that sought to penalize law firm WilmerHale—reversing a sweeping action that suspended clearances and restricted federal access for the firm’s lawyers. The judge—Republican appointee Richard Leon—issued a comprehensive 73-page decision, declaring the order unconstitutional. He wrote it “must be struck down in its entirety,” warning that upholding it would betray “the judgment and vision of the Founding Fathers”.

The ruling also marks the third time in May that federal courts have invalidated similar orders targeting major law firms—following decisions protecting Perkins Coie and Jenner & Block. Leon emphasized that Trump’s move was retaliatory, specifically citing WilmerHale’s representation of former Special Counsel Robert Mueller, and thus violated fundamental constitutional protections like free speech and due process.

In response, WilmerHale issued a statement celebrating the ruling as a strong affirmation of its constitutional rights, particularly the freedom to represent clients without fear of governmental retaliation. The White House, through spokesman Harrison Fields, insisted the president acted within his authority when revoking security clearances—a view the courts decisively rejected.

For the full legal analysis, and how this fits into a broader pattern of legal resistance, read the complete Reuters article.