A federal judge on Friday ruled that President Donald Trump’s executive order seeking to penalize the law firm Jenner & Block over its practicing decisions was “unlawful” and thereby blocked the order.
Trump has targeted multiple law firms since returning to office that he believes engaged in political “lawfare,” such as hiring lawyers who had formerly been involved in cases against him, or had advised his political opponents like former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.Â
U.S. District Judge John Bates, who was appointed by former President George W. Bush, said Trump targeted the law firm because of its causes, clients, and the fact that it previously hired Andrew Weismann, who worked on special counsel Robert Muellerâs Russia investigation.
Bates ruled that the executive order was “null and void,” and ordered the administration to rescind any actions it took to enforce the executive order.
âThis order, like the others, seeks to chill legal representation the administration doesnât like, thereby insulating the Executive Branch from the judicial check fundamental to the separation of powers,â Bates wrote. âIt thus violates the Constitution and the Court will enjoin its operation in full.â
The ruling comes after U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell earlier this month struck down Trumpâs order aimed at the Perkins Coie law firm.
Jenner & Block praised the ruling in a statement on its website, claiming the order highlights the importance of lawyers âstanding firmâ on behalf of their clients and the law.Â
âWe are pleased with the courtâs decision to decisively strike down an unconstitutional attack on our clientsâ right to have zealous, independent counsel and our firmâs right to represent our clients fully and without compromise,â the statement read.Â
Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.
