An open letter signed by 21 state attorneys general, including Delaware Attorney General Kathleen Jennings, called on law firms to resist illegal and unconstitutional threats of retribution for representing clients opposing the administration. The letter emphasized that lawyers are agents of the Constitution and should not be intimidated into silence by the President. The letter was released on Friday.

Skadden, Arps associate Rachel Cohen submitted a conditional resignation letter urging her firm to stand against Trump’s attempts to intimidate major law firms. This came after another firm, Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison, offered $40 million in free legal services, revoked their diversity, equity, and inclusion practices, and distanced themselves from a lawyer who had investigated Trump for financial crimes. The Trump administration rescinded its order against Paul, Weiss, and Skadden, Arps committed to a significant pro bono effort.

The actions of law firms in response to pressure from the Trump administration have sparked controversy within the legal community. Some firms, like Skadden, Arps, have stood against intimidation tactics, while others, like Paul, Weiss, have made concessions to avoid retribution. The open letter from state attorneys general highlights the importance of lawyers standing up for their clients and cases, even in the face of threats.