Summary
Cancels a prior order after the law firm Paul Weiss agreed to change its policies on hiring, client selection, and free legal work.
What problem does this solve?
A previous order placed restrictions on the law firm Paul Weiss for its role in undermining the justice system. This order removes those restrictions because the firm has agreed to change its practices and dedicate resources to pro bono work.
Who does this affect?
- The law firm Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP
- The legal profession
- Clients seeking pro bono legal services
What does this order do?
Revokes a previous executive order
Completely cancels Executive Order 14237, which addressed risks from the law firm Paul Weiss.
Recognizes new firm policies
Acknowledges Paul Weiss's new policies, including political neutrality in choosing clients and hiring lawyers.
Highlights a shift from diversity policies
Notes the firm's commitment to merit-based hiring, promotion, and keeping employees, instead of 'diversity, equity, and inclusion' policies.
Details pro bono commitments
States the firm will provide $40 million in free legal services to help veterans, support fairness in the justice system, and fight anti-Semitism.
What is the real world impact?
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Promotes specific political ideologies in the legal field
Encourages law firms to adopt 'merit-based' hiring over 'diversity, equity, and inclusion' policies and to take on clients and causes from across the political spectrum, reflecting a particular political viewpoint.
When does this start?
This order becomes effective on March 21, 2025, the date it was signed.