In a surprising move, former U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Damian Williams, is changing employers. After joining the renowned law firm Paul Weiss Rifkind Wharton & Garrison initially in January, just after his resignation as a top-tier federal prosecutor, he has decided to start a new chapter in his career. He is heading to another high-profile law firm, Jenner & Block.
The prestigious law firm Paul Weiss had previously partnered with the Trump administration, making them the first to negotiate a deal to counter a potentially damaging executive order. Losing Damian Williams signifies another high-profile departure, adding to the recent string of key employees leaving the firm.
Jenner & Block, the firm joining Mr. Williams’ journey, made the news about this significant move public on Friday. Upholding his trajectory as one of the country’s prestigious legal professionals, Mr. Williams receives an important position in his new home. He is chosen to operate jointly as the head of the law firm’s litigation and white-collar practices.
Contrary to the approach of Paul Weiss, Jenner & Block boldly chose to counter an executive order, which specifically aimed at punishing the firm. This order was in reaction to the firm’s employment of a lawyer who had led an investigation into Mr. Trump. Jenner & Block’s courage proved profitable when a federal judge ruled out this order, citing it as a ‘double violation of the Constitution.’
Throughout his tenure as the U.S. attorney of Manhattan, Mr. Williams, at 44, guided his team towards securing numerous high-profile convictions. These include prominent victories such as a significant fraud case against Sam Bankman-Fried, the former founder of the FTX cryptocurrency exchange.
Mr. Williams’ team was also successful in accomplishing the conviction of the former Senator of New Jersey, Robert Menendez. They managed to charge him on public corruption grounds, marking another milestone in his career as a federal prosecutor.
Prior to being appointed as the U.S. Attorney in 2021 by former President Joseph R. Biden, Williams led the office’s securities and commodities task force. His noteworthy accomplishments have led to a series of opportunities in his legal career.
In addition to these roles, Mr. Williams has also gained significant experience serving as a law clerk for former U.S. Supreme Court Justice, John Paul Stevens. Justice Stevens, who holds a liberal reputation, played an influential role in shaping Williams’ legal perspective.
When asked about the move to Jenner & Block, Mr. Williams expressed his deep respect for his new firm’s client-focused approach. He said, ‘Jenner & Block fearlessly advocates for its clients and provides outstanding strategic counsel through their most difficult challenges.’
Echoing his appreciation for his new team’s expertise in handling complex litigation, Williams added, ‘I’ve seen firsthand how this firm expertly tackles the toughest cases and lives its values.’ His comments highlight the respect and belief he already embodies towards Jenner & Block.
The addition of a seasoned legal professional like Damian Williams will undeniably enhance the expertise and reputation of Jenner & Block. The firm is gaining a dedicated leader and an experienced lawyer known for his successful track record of high-profile convictions.
Williams’ move from a firm that had been in a partnership with the Trump administration to a firm that fought back an executive order aimed against it is a significant one. His decision might be read as an endorsement of Jenner & Block’s approach and their commitment to stand against potentially harmful executive orders.
In the overarching narrative of his vivid career, Damian Williams’ recent move represents yet another significant chapter. His decision to join Jenner & Block underscores his commitment to uphold the law and work against unlawful intimidation.
In the landscape of the United States legal profession, Damian Williams’ reputation, formed by his various roles and significant victories, has made him a noteworthy persona. His move to Jenner & Block is looked upon as a significant move that will empower the firm and give Mr. Williams ample opportunities to carve out even more successes.