Paul Weiss Experiences Major Partner Departures Amid Controversy

In a significant development for the legal landscape, Paul Weiss, one of the most reputable law firms in the United States, witnessed the departure of four of its top partners. This news has not only shocked the firm but also sent ripples through the legal community as the partners have decided to start their own firm following dissatisfaction with recent corporate decisions.

Reasons Behind the Departure from Paul Weiss

The breaking news emerged on May 23, 2025, when Karen Dunn, Bill Isaacson, Jeannie Rhee, and Jessica Phillips announced their exit from Paul Weiss. Their decision comes shortly after a controversial agreement made by the firm’s chairman, Brad Karp, with President Trump’s administration. This deal reportedly aimed to circumvent an executive order that could limit the firm’s business opportunities.

This arrangement has drawn criticism from various quarters, including associates within the firm and Democratic circles. Many viewed it as a capitulation to a controversial political figure, leading to internal dissatisfaction among some lawyers at Paul Weiss.

Profiles of the Departing Partners

The departing partners at Paul Weiss are highly regarded in their respective legal fields:

Karen Dunn: A prominent Democratic lawyer, Dunn has played pivotal roles in shaping political campaigns for influential figures like former Vice President Kamala Harris and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. Her legal expertise was instrumental in representing major corporations including Alphabet and Apple.
Jeannie Rhee: Known for her significant role in Robert S. Mueller III’s special counsel investigation, Rhee led the firm’s Washington office and was highly respected for her legal acumen.
Bill Isaacson: Recognized as one of the top antitrust lawyers in the country, Isaacson’s departure marks a significant loss for firm’s litigation prowess.
Jessica Phillips: A former clerk for Supreme Court Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr., Phillips is noted for her legal and analytical skills.

Upon announcing their departure, these partners expressed regret over not being able to convey their decision to colleagues face-to-face, stating, “It has been an honor to work alongside such talented lawyers and to call so many of you our friends.” They also emphasized their eagerness to continue collaboration in the future.

The Impact of Partner Departures on Paul Weiss

The exit of these influential lawyers represents a significant blow to Paul Weiss’s reputation and capabilities. As the firm navigates potential criticisms from both internal and external sources, the departure raises questions about its future trajectory and ability to attract top legal talent.

In responding to this development, Karp issued a statement acknowledging the contributions of Dunn, Rhee, Isaacson, and Phillips, wishing them well in their future endeavors. This acknowledgement can be seen as an attempt to manage the fallout from the recent decision and mend relationships both internally and externally.

Looking Ahead: Future of Paul Weiss

Legal experts are now closely monitoring how Paul Weiss will address the challenges posed by these departures. Will they seek to replace these key figures, or will the moment serve as a catalyst for broader changes within the firm? Additionally, the establishment of the new firm by the departing partners will likely attract significant attention, especially given their backgrounds and prominent roles within the legal community.

The situation is ongoing; further developments are anticipated as the legal market observes any shifts in operations, especially considering the controversial deal with the Trump administration and its implications for the firm’s future.

Conclusion

The recent exit of key partners like those from Paul Weiss not only highlights the complexities of law firm dynamics but also underscores how political decisions can ripple through professional landscapes. These changes will be crucial to observe as the legal community adjusts to new realities ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the partners leave Paul Weiss?

The partners left due to dissatisfaction with a deal cut by the firm with President Trump’s administration that many viewed as a capitulation to political pressure.

Who are the departing partners from Paul Weiss?

The departing partners include Karen Dunn, Jeannie Rhee, Bill Isaacson, and Jessica Phillips, all recognized experts in their fields.

What implications does this have for Paul Weiss?

The departures represent a significant loss of talent and could impact the firm’s reputation and ability to attract new clients.

What are the partners planning to do after leaving?

They plan to start their own law firm, continuing to leverage their expertise and connections in the legal industry.

How has the legal community reacted to these developments?

Reactions have been varied, with many expressing concern about the implications of Paul Weiss’s recent decisions and the departure of such high-profile figures.