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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 12, 2025

WACDL Condemns Executive Order Targeting Perkins Coie as an Attack on Due Process and the Legal Profession

Seattle, WA – The Washington Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (WACDL), an association of over 600 criminal defense attorneys across the state of Washington, strongly condemns President Trump’s recent executive order targeting Perkins Coie. This order, which suspends security clearances, terminates federal contracts, and initiates discriminatory investigations against the firm, represents a dangerous escalation in the use of executive power to punish legal professionals for their legal advocacy.

“This executive order is a clear and alarming assault on due process and the independence of the legal profession,” said WACDL President Cooper Offenbecher. “Targeting a law firm for its past clients and legal advocacy sets a chilling precedent that threatens the ability of all attorneys to advocate zealously on behalf of their clients without fear of government retaliation.”

WACDL stands in firm opposition to any executive action that erodes constitutional protections, threatens the independence of the legal profession, and undermines the right to due process.

Read WACDL's full statement below.