April 29, 2025
More than 1,100 law students from 161 law schools across 38 U.S. states have filed a friend-of-the-court brief supporting the law firm Susman Godfrey in its lawsuit challenging an executive order issued by President Donald Trump. The executive order, dated April 9, 2025, restricts the firm’s access to federal buildings and officials and threatens to cancel federal contracts held by its clients. The administration accuses Susman Godfrey of undermining U.S. elections—a claim the firm denies.
The students’ brief, coordinated by the National Plaintiffs’ Law Association with support from Kline & Specter, argues that the executive order represents government retaliation against firms for representing clients disfavored by the executive branch. They contend that such actions infringe upon constitutional rights, including free speech and due process.
Susman Godfrey is among four law firms—alongside Perkins Coie, WilmerHale, and Jenner & Block—that have filed lawsuits against the Trump administration over similar executive orders. Federal judges have already temporarily blocked key provisions of these orders, citing potential violations of constitutional protections.
The Justice Department has maintained that President Trump acted within his authority. However, the growing support from the legal community, including law students nationwide, underscores concerns about the potential erosion of legal independence and the rule of law.
This collective action by law students reflects a broader apprehension within the legal profession regarding the implications of the executive orders on legal representation and constitutional rights.
Source: Reuters
