In a dramatic turn during the Trump administration’s escalating clash with America’s largest law firms, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom agreed to provide over $100 million in pro bono legal services to causes supported by the White House — in what many see as a preemptive pact to avert an executive order that could have punished the firm. (CBS News)

President Trump announced the agreement on March 28, 2025, portraying the move as part of a broader effort to rein in what his administration characterizes as the “weaponization” of the legal profession. The firm also committed to changes in employment practices, including working with outside counsel on its policies and pledging not to engage in “illegal DEI discrimination and preferences,” according to the president’s statement. (Reuters)

This was not merely a gesture of goodwill — it came amid a broader campaign of executive orders targeting law firms perceived as aligned with Trump’s political opponents. Prior orders had suspended security clearances for lawyers and restricted access to federal buildings for firms such as Perkins Coie, Jenner & Block, and WilmerHale. Those firms responded with lawsuits alleging constitutional violations, and federal judges have issued temporary blocks on enforcement. (Wikipedia)

Unlike some firms that fought the orders in court, Skadden approached the administration proactively, according to Trump, and agreed to the settlement without ever being formally targeted by an executive order. The firm’s executive partner stated that this course was chosen to protect the interests of its clients, employees, and long-term viability. (Reuters)

The deal sparked internal dissent: several Skadden attorneys resigned in protest, arguing that the agreement undermines the profession’s independence and conveyed a troubling message about where legal power now resides. Critics worry this sets a precedent where political pressure, wielded through executive action, can influence the mission and conduct of even the most prestigious law firms. (Business Insider)

Key takeaway:
This isn’t just about charity hours — it’s about how legal institutions reckon with political leverage in an era where executive authority is being tested against longstanding norms of legal independence. (Wikipedia)

Source (click to read):
🔗 Law firm Skadden cuts $100 million pro bono deal with Trump to avoid executive order — CBS News (Mar 28, 2025) (CBS News)