Full Breakdown
Trump’s Legal Team Faces Changes Amid Ongoing Criminal Appeal
4/22/2026, 5:16:00 AM
Departure of Key Lawyers from Sullivan & Cromwell
On April 21, 2026, it was announced that two prominent appellate lawyers, Jeffrey Wall and Morgan Ratner, are leaving the Wall Street law firm Sullivan & Cromwell to join rival firm Gibson Dunn. This transition means that Wall and Ratner will no longer represent U.S. President Donald Trump in his appeal against a New York criminal conviction. Their departure was confirmed by a source involved in the matter, while Robert Giuffra, a co-chair at Sullivan & Cromwell who continues to defend Trump, did not provide immediate comments regarding the change.
Background of the Case
Wall and Ratner were part of the legal team defending Trump against charges related to falsifying business records. These charges stem from a $130,000 payment made by Trump’s former personal lawyer, Michael Cohen, to adult film actor Stormy Daniels, aimed at securing her silence about an alleged sexual encounter with Trump prior to the 2016 presidential election. In May 2024, a New York jury convicted Trump on 34 felony counts associated with these charges. Trump, who pleaded not guilty, received an unconditional discharge, meaning he faced no jail time or other penalties. He has since appealed the conviction, asserting that the case, initiated by Democratic Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, is a politically motivated effort to undermine his 2024 presidential campaign.
Implications of the Lawyers' Departure
The move of Wall and Ratner to Gibson Dunn, where they will serve as partners, is significant given their extensive experience, having collectively argued over 45 cases before the U.S. Supreme Court. Wall is expected to lead Gibson Dunn's appellate and constitutional law practice. Despite their departure, Giuffra and other attorneys at Sullivan & Cromwell will continue to represent Trump in the ongoing New York case.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of the legal proceedings against Trump argue that the charges are politically motivated, suggesting that the case is part of a broader strategy to hinder his presidential campaign. Supporters of the prosecution, however, maintain that the legal actions are necessary to uphold accountability for alleged misconduct.
Official Statements & Responses
While specific comments from Wall, Ratner, and Giuffra were not available at the time of reporting, the transition of high-profile lawyers is likely to have implications for Trump's legal strategy moving forward. The ongoing appeal process will be closely monitored as it unfolds.
What's Next
As Trump continues his appeal against the conviction, the legal landscape surrounding his case may shift further, particularly with the addition of new legal representation at Gibson Dunn. The outcome of this appeal could have significant ramifications for Trump's political future as he campaigns for the 2024 presidential election.
