Judge Temporarily Blocks Trump Order Targeting Perkins Coie Law Firm
The executive order, which sought to impose restrictions on the Clinton-linked firm, was deemed likely unconstitutional by U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell.
- President Trump issued an executive order on March 6, targeting Perkins Coie for alleged misconduct, including its role in commissioning the Steele dossier during the 2016 election.
- The order sought to revoke security clearances, restrict access to federal buildings, and review federal contracts involving the law firm.
- U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell granted a temporary restraining order, citing First Amendment violations and a lack of due process for the firm.
- Judge Howell criticized the order as retaliatory and warned of its chilling effect on the legal profession, likening it to the Queen of Hearts' arbitrary decrees in 'Alice in Wonderland.'
- Perkins Coie, which employs over 1,200 attorneys, argued the order threatened its business, with clients already terminating relationships due to reputational harm.