Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

DC Bar Warns Law Firms on Trump Deal Ethics

10/29/2025

34 8

Summary

Story summary

The District of Columbia Bar's ethics committee warns about law firms that struck deals with U.S. President Donald Trump to avoid punitive executive orders.
The deals could require firms to drop clients with conflicting interests or obtain waivers.
The opinion notes ethical risks if firms must prioritize government interests over client advocacy.
It also cites ambiguity in the agreements, complicating full disclosure of conflicts to clients.

1 of 1

Story summary

The District of Columbia Bar's ethics committee warns about law firms that struck deals with U.S. President Donald Trump to avoid punitive executive orders.
The deals could require firms to drop clients with conflicting interests or obtain waivers.
The opinion notes ethical risks if firms must prioritize government interests over client advocacy.
It also cites ambiguity in the agreements, complicating full disclosure of conflicts to clients.