Norton Rose Attorneys Advised Not To Comment On He Who Must Not Be Named

Firm advises lawyers the less they say about Trump the better. The post Norton Rose Attorneys Advised Not To Comment On He Who Must Not Be Named appeared first on Above the Law.

Apr 18, 2025 - 23:43
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Norton Rose Attorneys Advised Not To Comment On He Who Must Not Be Named

Norton Rose Fulbright attorneys are being warned by firm leaders to mind their Ps and Qs when talking about Donald Trump. Due to “sensitivities surrounding this subject,” whenever an attorney is writing anything related to Trump they have to get it cleared by the firm’s editorial team, according to an internal memo addressed to the EMEA offices but shared with lawyers.

As reported by Law.com International:

“The key point is that we publish and comment on legal, rather than political issues,” the memo stated.

The firm also told lawyers to avoid mentioning the Trump administration “in any way other than factual.” It said they should avoid sharing political opinion, stressing that the firm’s voice “must remain neutral.” When discussing tariffs or other policies of the administration, lawyers were told to stick to legal implications, potential impacts on clients, and ensure the commentary is balanced.

I guess that’s prudent, given the petty retaliation that’s a hallmark of Trump’s interactions with Biglaw.

A firm spokesperson clarified, “For the avoidance of doubt, this guidance does not, of course, constrain our people from sharing their political views in their personal capacity.” A distinction I’m sure even Orwell could appreciate.


Kathryn Rubino is a Senior Editor at Above the Law, host of The Jabot podcast, and co-host of Thinking Like A Lawyer. AtL tipsters are the best, so please connect with her. Feel free to email her with any tips, questions, or comments and follow her on Twitter @Kathryn1 or Mastodon @Kathryn1@mastodon.social.

The post Norton Rose Attorneys Advised Not To Comment On He Who Must Not Be Named appeared first on Above the Law.