Full Breakdown
Sullivan & Cromwell’s Internal Split Over Donald Trump’s Carroll Defamation Appeal
7/11/2026, 3:12:16 AM
Internal Conflict Over Trump’s Carroll Representation
Partners at the New York-based firm Sullivan & Cromwell are reportedly at odds after the firm agreed to help former president Donald Trump seek Supreme Court review of the $83 million defamation verdict in the E. Jean Carroll case. The move contradicts an earlier pledge that the firm would not handle the Carroll matters.
Background and Governance Context
Sullivan & Cromwell took Trump on in 2024 to handle his criminal appeal on falsifying business records and a civil fraud judgment. The firm’s executive committee, rather than the usual managing-partner committee, approved the representation. When the Carroll appeal was added, the executive committee allegedly did not inform the managing partners, and the firm has denied media involvement while warning lawyers against leaking information.
Key Figures
- Robert “Bob” Giuffra, co-chairman, who initially set the red line and is now listed among the lawyers preparing the Supreme Court petition.
- Boris Epshteyn, Trump’s personal attorney, who urged the firm to take the Carroll work.
- E. Jean Carroll, journalist who won a $5 million sexual-assault verdict and an $83 million defamation verdict against Trump.
Official Statements & Responses
- “The decision to represent Trump came only after ‘thorough discussion’ with partners and deliberation at the Managing Partners and Management Committees.” — Sullivan & Cromwell spokesperson
- The firm declined to comment on the Carroll representation, citing client confidentiality, and has instructed lawyers to flag any press inquiries.
Criticism and Partner Opposition
- “The Carroll cases were of particular concern for some lawyers because of the nature of Carroll’s allegations.” — *The Wall Street Journal*
- “Partners have complained to colleagues and people outside the firm about a lack of transparency from Sullivan & Cromwell’s leadership regarding the firm’s work for the president.” — Sullivan & Cromwell partners
- “The firm risks becoming a ‘one-stop shop for Trump’s highest-profile personal legal matters.’” — Sullivan & Cromwell partners
- “The firm’s red line on the Trump representation was apparently drawn in pencil.” — reporting source
These statements illustrate a growing rift as the firm balances lucrative presidential business against reputational concerns among its senior lawyers.
