"Kannon Shanmugam is leaving Paul, Weiss for Davis Polk & Wardwell, marking a significant loss for the firm's appellate litigation practice. His departure is part of a broader trend of talent leaving the firm following its controversial deal with the Trump administration."
"Paul, Weiss became the first major Biglaw firm to capitulate to Donald Trump, signing a deal that included $40 million in pro bono services and the elimination of all DEI programs."
"The fallout from the Trump deal has been considerable, with several partners, including litigation co-chair Karen Dunn, leaving to start their own boutique firm."
"Shanmugam was one of the few Biglaw partners to publicly comment on the firm's deal with Trump, providing an explanation rather than a full endorsement."
Kannon Shanmugam, a leading Supreme Court litigator, is departing Paul, Weiss for Davis Polk & Wardwell to establish a new Supreme Court and appellate practice. His exit follows a trend of litigation talent leaving Paul, Weiss after the firm’s controversial deal with the Trump administration in March 2025. This deal involved significant pro bono commitments and the removal of DEI programs, leading to a series of high-profile departures from the firm, including several partners and a former U.S. Attorney.
Read at Above the Law
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