June 26, 2025


Milbank Takes a Stand: Legal and Judicial Highlights of the Week

In a bold move that has caught the attention of many, Milbank, a prestigious law firm, has openly opposed a recent executive order issued by President Trump. The firm's decision to push back represents a significant shift, marking the first time in years that Milbank has taken such a public stance against a presidential directive. This development has stirred considerable interest in the legal community, prompting discussions about the implications for other firms and the legal landscape at large. For more on this, see Milbank's resurgence of defiance [here](https://abovethelaw.com/2025/06/milbanks-spine-makes-a-reappearance/).

Elsewhere, the judicial confirmation hearing of Emil Bove III turned heads not just for his candidacy but for his peculiar choice of attire—a T-shirt claiming he's "not a henchman." This unusual statement has raised eyebrows and questions about his past actions and affiliations, especially given his admittedly spotty memory. The details of this intriguing confirmation can be found [here](https://abovethelaw.com/2025/06/emil-boves-im-not-a-henchman-t-shirt-has-people-asking-questions-at-judicial-confirmation-hearing/).

In academic circles, controversy surrounds a Florida Law School dean who seemingly missed a crucial point in a grading scandal. A Trump-appointed judge awarded a top grade to a student's paper titled "The Constitution is for White People," sparking outrage and debate over academic standards and judicial biases. This issue highlights deeper problems within educational and judicial systems, discussed in depth [here](https://abovethelaw.com/2025/06/law-school-dean-shrugs-off-trump-judge-giving-top-grade-to-constitution-is-for-white-people-paper/).

On a lighter note, Vault has released its annual rankings for the best summer associate programs. These rankings are eagerly anticipated by law students nationwide, offering insights into which firms provide the best training, mentorship, and career opportunities for aspiring lawyers. The full list and detailed analysis can be accessed [here](https://abovethelaw.com/2025/06/vault-ranks-the-best-summer-associate-programs-2026/).

Lastly, the legal industry continues to evolve, and with it, the role and definition of midsize law firms. These entities occupy a unique position in the market, but their exact size and influence remain a topic of discussion. For a deeper understanding of what constitutes a midsize firm and how they compare to their larger and smaller counterparts, read more [here](https://abovethelaw.com/2025/06/we-know-what-biglaw-is-solos-are-self-explanatory-but-what-exactly-is-a-midsize-law-firm/).

This week’s legal news provides a snapshot of the dynamic and ever-changing landscape of the law, the professionals navigating it, and the institutions shaping it. For continued updates on these stories and more, stay tuned to Above the Law.