Overview

• Judge Leon barred federal agencies from enforcing Trump’s March 27 order, calling it retaliation that violated the First and Fifth Amendment protections.
• The order singled out WilmerHale for employing former special counsel Robert Mueller and accused the firm of weaponizing its pro bono practice.
• This ruling represents the third time courts have permanently blocked Trump’s firm-targeting directives this month after similar decisions in favor of Perkins Coie and Jenner & Block.
• WilmerHale’s lawsuit was led by former U.S. Solicitor General Paul Clement, who argued the order infringed on the firm’s free speech and due process rights.
• The Justice Department can appeal to the D.C. Circuit, with the administration continuing to defend the president’s exercise of executive authority.