Two Cadwalader Partners Exit Over The Firm's Capitulation To Donald Trump - Above the Law
Briefly

Cadwalader's recent dealings with the Trump administration, particularly a controversial $100 million pro bono deal, have led to partner departures and negatively influenced the firm’s reputation among clients. Partners Phara Guberman and Kenneth Breen are leaving for Foley & Lardner, citing discontent with the firm's capitulation to Trump as a key factor. Despite claims of record financial performance, the backlash from clients who view such compromises as weaknesses continues to affect the firm’s standing in the white collar defense sector. The situation raises questions about the ethics of such legal agreements under political pressure.
The firm's deal with Trump contributed to the white collar lawyers' decision to leave, according to the person familiar with the situation.
Increasingly, clients see the Trump deals as a weakness and are pulling work away from the firms that have demonstrated they are unwilling to take a legal fight.
Cadwalader had a record year in 2024, and 2025 to date has been even stronger, with our financial performance beating last year.
That money doesn't cover up the stink of capitulation.
Read at Above the Law
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