Judge Blocks Key Provisions of Trump Order Targeting Law Firm Perkins Coie

The federal judge ruled the executive order likely violated constitutional protections, citing concerns over retaliation against the firm for its past political affiliations.

U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell issued a temporary restraining order blocking sections of President Trump's executive order targeting Perkins Coie, a law firm linked to Hillary Clinton's 2016 campaign.
The blocked provisions include banning Perkins Coie attorneys from government buildings, restricting their interactions with federal officials, and requiring contractors to disclose ties to the firm.
Judge Howell stated that the order likely violated the First Amendment and due process protections, describing it as retaliatory and raising concerns about its chilling effect on the legal profession.
Perkins Coie argued the order threatened its financial stability, with approximately 25% of its revenue tied to government work, and described the action as politically motivated retaliation.
The executive order follows Trump’s broader efforts to target entities he perceives as adversaries, including other law firms and individuals connected to investigations or opposition campaigns.