Attorney General Nick Brown of Washington has entered a coalition of 21 attorneys general supporting two amicus briefs aimed at contesting executive orders. These orders, issued by President Donald Trump, target particular law firms due to political opposition.
Brown voiced concern over the implications of these orders, stating, "These illegal executive orders aimed at specific law firms are an attack on the rule of law." He warned that the president's actions "could cause attorneys to avoid making certain legal claims or taking cases to avoid retribution," potentially undermining the legal system and impacting vulnerable communities without representation.
The executive orders in question demand that federal officials suspend any active security clearances from employees of the targeted law firms and restrict interaction with these firms by denying entry to federal buildings. Furthermore, the orders compel federal contractors to reveal any business with the specified law firms, allowing for possible contract termination.
The two amicus briefs were submitted in support of legal challenges to these orders in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. The law firms involved have already obtained temporary injunctive relief and are seeking permanent injunctions against these orders.
Brown, along with his counterparts, argue that the orders threaten the ability of lawyers to engage with controversial cases or clients without fear of government retaliation. They emphasize the risk posed to state residents, especially those depending on pro bono legal services, as it may become more challenging to secure legal advocacy and uphold rights in court.
The coalition of attorneys general spearheading this effort includes representatives from Washington, Illinois, New Jersey, and Massachusetts, with additional support from states like Arizona, California, New York, and Vermont, among others.
The amicus briefs are accessible online for further details.
Washington's Attorney General's Office, acting as the state's largest legal entity, provides representation to a variety of state agencies, while also prioritizing consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental laws.