Overview

• On May 27, U.S. District Judge Richard Leon permanently blocked the executive order against WilmerHale, finding it retaliated against the firm and violated constitutional free speech and due process protections.
• The March order had directed federal agencies to suspend WilmerHale’s security clearances, cancel government contracts and bar its attorneys from federal buildings over the firm’s ties to former special counsel Robert Mueller.
• This decision follows similar rulings by Judges Beryl Howell and John Bates that struck down orders against Perkins Coie and Jenner & Block, while a challenge from Susman Godfrey remains pending.
• In a 73-page opinion punctuated by 27 exclamation points, Leon underscored the principle that an independent judiciary and bar are essential cornerstones of American justice.
• The Justice Department, which argues the orders represent lawful exercise of presidential authority, may appeal Leon’s ruling to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit.