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N.J. Attorney General Joins Multistate Brief Supporting Law Firms Challenging Trump Orders
The coalition argues the executive orders could have broader implications for access to legal services and the rule of law.
Apr. 4, 2026 at 8:33am
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The coalition's legal brief argues that the Trump administration's actions against law firms threaten the independence of the legal profession and the rule of law.Trenton TodayNew Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport has joined a coalition of attorneys general in filing a legal brief supporting law firms challenging a series of executive orders issued by former President Donald Trump. The amicus brief backs four law firms in their challenge to the orders, which imposed sanctions and restrictions on the firms, including related to security clearances, federal hiring, and access to government buildings.
Why it matters
The attorneys general argue the executive orders could have broader implications for access to legal services and the legal system, as lawyers must be able to represent clients without fear of government retaliation. Lower federal courts have previously ruled that the orders raise constitutional concerns, including potential violations of First Amendment protections.
The details
The coalition, co-led by Davenport along with attorneys general from Illinois, Massachusetts and Washington, filed the brief in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. The filing states the orders directed federal contractors to disclose business relationships with the law firms. Attorney General Davenport said the orders are 'darkly ironic' during America's 250th anniversary, as they threaten the rule of law by punishing law firms for representing clients.
- The executive orders were issued by President Trump in 2025.
The players
Jennifer Davenport
The Attorney General of New Jersey who co-led the coalition filing the amicus brief.
Jenner & Block LLP
One of the four law firms challenging the Trump executive orders in court.
Perkins Coie LLP
One of the four law firms challenging the Trump executive orders in court.
Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale LLP
One of the four law firms challenging the Trump executive orders in court.
Susman Godfrey LLP
One of the four law firms challenging the Trump executive orders in court.
What they’re saying
“It is darkly ironic, frankly, that during America's 250th anniversary, President Trump is continuing his crusade to rip apart the very foundations of the rule of law embedded in the Constitution. The legal profession depends on attorneys being able to represent clients independent of political pressure. If this isn't true, and law firms can't practice without fear of being punished by the President, what remains of the rule of law? We must fight back.”
— Jennifer Davenport, Attorney General of New Jersey
What’s next
The appellate court will review the coalition's brief and rule on the constitutionality of the Trump executive orders.
The takeaway
This case highlights the ongoing tensions between the executive branch and the legal profession, with concerns that political pressure and retaliation could undermine the rule of law and access to legal services for citizens.
