In a bold response to President Donald Trump’s aggressive stance against major law firms, Democracy Forward, a legal nonprofit, has become a beacon of hope in defending democratic values and providing necessary legal representation. In recent years, Trump has issued a series of executive orders aimed at crippling Biglaw firms that do not comply with his political agenda, causing a significant reduction in their pro bono and public interest work.

The shift in Biglaw’s priorities has created a void in legal representation, particularly affecting cases involving human rights and democratic principles. Many law firms, facing the threat of financial and reputational damage, have chosen to align with Trump’s demands, providing free legal services to conservative causes to avoid his ire. This has had a chilling effect across the sector, with a notable decrease in the willingness of these firms to take on public interest litigation.

However, not all hope is lost. Democracy Forward, established in the aftermath of Trump's first administration and staffed by a mix of former Biglaw and government attorneys, has risen to the challenge. Under the leadership of CEO and President Skye Perryman, the organization has taken on more than 100 actions against the Trump administration in 2025 alone. Perryman highlights the increased demand for their services as more communities and individuals turn to them for support, which they previously sought from private sector firms.

The organization has seen substantial growth, now boasting 150 staff members, which puts them in a strong position to handle a wide array of legal challenges against government policies and actions. Perryman emphasizes the importance of having a dedicated full-time legal team ready to tackle these crucial issues, especially as larger law firms withdraw from such engagements.

As Biglaw firms continue to navigate the treacherous waters of political influence and coercion, small and boutique law firms, along with organizations like Democracy Forward, are crucial in upholding the rule of law and supporting the underrepresented. The legal landscape in 2025 may be fraught with challenges, but the commitment of these entities provides a glimmer of hope in what has become an all-hands-on-deck battle to protect and advance democratic values.