STATEMENT OPPOSING TRUMP ADMINISTRATION’S TARGETING OF PRO BONO COUNSEL REPRESENTING JACK SMITH
On February 25, 2025, President Trump issued a memorandum suspending the security clearances of all partners and employees of Covington & Burling LLP who assisted former Special Counsel Jack Smith. The memorandum also ordered all federal departments and agencies to terminate any engagement of Covington & Burling.
Attorneys at Covington & Burling, a well-known law firm, represent former Special Counsel Jack Smith on a pro bono basis. Covington & Burling recently agreed to help Smith, in his personal capacity, after it became apparent that he would become the subject of a government investigation because of the work he performed as Special Counsel.
The Chicago Council of Lawyers believes that attorneys have a responsibility to represent parties who are being attacked by the government, and the Council applauds Covington & Burling for representing Jack Smith on a pro bono basis.
In the Council’s view, there is no legitimate reason to suspend the security clearances of partners and employees of Covington & Burling, and President Trump’s actions are intended to punish Covington & Burling merely because of its representation of Jack Smith. The President’s actions also handicap Smith in defending himself in the government’s investigation.
The use of government power to punish perceived “enemies” is a hallmark of autocracy. By taking these actions against Covington & Burling, the Trump administration is attempting to intimidate other attorneys and law firms from representing persons who oppose the administration’s agenda.
The Chicago Council of Lawyers urges its members and all attorneys throughout the country to meet this moment and continue to fulfill their ethical duties to diligently represent their clients, including with zeal in advocacy before the courts, and without fear of retaliation from the federal government.
Click here to become a member of the Chicago Council of Lawyers.