Attorney General Jennifer Davenport led a coalition of 21 attorneys general in filing an amicus brief on Apr. 3 supporting four law firms that are challenging executive orders issued by President Trump in 2025. The brief was submitted to the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals and argues that the orders, which imposed sanctions on Jenner & Block LLP, Perkins Coie LLP, Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale LLP, and Susman Godfrey LLP, are unconstitutional.
The issue is significant because it concerns the independence of legal professionals and the protection of clients’ rights to representation without political interference. The attorneys general say that allowing such executive actions could undermine public trust in the justice system.
According to Davenport, “It is darkly ironic, frankly, that during America’s 250th anniversary, President Trump is continuing his crusade to rip apart the very foundations of the rule of law embedded in the Constitution.” She continued: “The legal profession depends on attorneys being able to represent clients independent of political pressure. If this isn’t true, and law firms can’t practice without fear of being punished by the President, what remains of the rule of law? We must fight back.”
The challenged executive orders required federal officials to suspend security clearances for individuals at these firms and barred them from entering federal buildings or receiving government contracts if their advocacy or personnel were politically disfavored by President Trump. Four district judges have found these measures unconstitutional as they retaliate against protected viewpoints under the First Amendment.
The amici states wrote that lawyers must be able to take controversial cases without fearing government reprisal for upholding democracy and justice principles. They argue that if upheld, these orders would make it harder for many people—especially those relying on pro bono services—to access legal representation.
Davenport co-led this effort with Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul, Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell, Washington Attorney General Nick Brown, and other state attorneys general from across the country.
The New Jersey Attorney General’s office holds statewide authority over public safety matters including enforcement and prosecution according to its official website. Its responsibilities include providing legal support throughout all counties in New Jersey as well as offering services such as crime lab support and victim advocacy according to its official website. The agency also influences public safety through oversight roles across New Jersey according to its official website.
