Paul, Weiss accepts conditions to avoid Trump's retaliation

Big law firms are in a tough spot as tensions rise between the Trump administration and legal institutions. Recently, the prestigious law firm Paul, Weiss made headlines when it agreed to new conditions set by Trump. This came after Trump ordered changes affecting law firms that have represented Democrats. The firm is now required to provide legal services regardless of political affiliation and contribute $40 million in pro bono work. It also agreed to remove its diversity policies. Earlier in the month, another law firm, Perkins Coie, received a temporary restraining order from a U.S. District Judge against Trump's actions. However, the Department of Justice has indicated it might ignore the ruling. This has raised concerns about the independence of legal practices as Trump continues to target firms that oppose him. In another development, Trump announced the creation of a new department, the Department of Government Efficiency, led by Elon Musk. This department's controversial actions have caused legal challenges, resulting in court orders that the administration may not be following. Additionally, Trump is threatening federal funding to the University of Pennsylvania over its policy allowing transgender athletes. This action aims to pressure schools to align with the administration's stance on gender issues. Finally, Trump continues to defy legal norms by firing members of the Federal Trade Commission. This challenges a long-standing legal precedent that protects these independent officials from being removed by the president. The ongoing actions have sparked debates about the limits of presidential power and the role of the judicial system in holding the administration accountable.