Much is being written about how Paul Weiss and other Big Law firms in the US are responding to the egregious attacks on them by the White House (“Big Law’s identity crisis”, The Big Read, April 2).
Paul Weiss, Skadden Arps and similar firms play a critical role in facilitating commercial activity — whether that is M&A, capital markets or commercial disputes. Their business model is much closer to investment banking than it is to many other law firms. So, uncomfortable as it may be, it is entirely right that they should prioritise the best interests of their firms. No one can reasonably expect them, or anyone else in the commercial world, to sacrifice their existence in an unwinnable fight with the administration.
It should be remembered as well that these firms have an outstanding history of giving time to public service. They all operate significant pro bono programmes and partners frequently serve in government (of either colour). There are many ways to support the rule of law without being suicidal and these firms make a substantial contribution to that constant demand.
But there is also no shortage of lawyers in the US. And many practise in firms whose model does allow them to take the fight to the White House without risking their firm’s existence.
So we should be highly confident both that the firms that can will do so and that many partners in Big Law will find ways in their personal capacity to support them.
The US legal profession has a proud history of defending the rule of law. It will take a little time as the legal process will not be as rushed and dramatic as the daily announcements from the White House. But there is no doubt at all that the right outcome will prevail.
Charlie Geffen
Former Senior Partner, Ashurst,
London SW17, UK
