Lawyers for Good Government Mobilizes the Legal Community to Defend Democracy Amid Escalating Threats
In an extraordinary response to escalating threats against the U.S. Constitution, more than 2,100 lawyers from all 50 states have signed L4GG’s open letter condemning recent executive actions by the Trump administration and reaffirming their commitment to defending the rule of law.
The open letter calls out a series of alarming executive orders and actions, including efforts to rewrite the 14th Amendment, freeze congressionally approved funds, and dismantle key civil rights protections. The signatories include attorneys from across legal fields, united by a shared understanding that silence in the face of these violations is not an option.
“These actions are not just policy disputes - they represent a coordinated attempt to undermine the rule of law and rewrite the Constitution by executive fiat. As lawyers, our oath is not just a formality; it is a binding commitment to uphold the Constitution on which our entire system of government is based. The legal profession simply cannot remain silent as the executive branch attempts to bypass constitutional checks and balances. Every lawyer, no matter their practice area or political affiliation, has a role to play in safeguarding our democracy.””
The letter highlights the administration’s attempt to bypass constitutional limits on executive power and urges lawyers to act through advocacy, education, legal challenges, and pro bono support for those harmed by these policies. Key threats identified include:
Unilateral Attempts to Restrict Birthright Citizenship: Violating Supreme Court precedent, this order threatens to deny citizenship to over 150,000 children annually.
Freezing Congressionally Appropriated Funds: Defying Congress’ “power of the purse” by halting funding for programs like medical research and disaster relief.
Firing Independent Inspectors: Removing 17 inspectors general without providing the 30-day required notice to Congress, leaving federal agencies vulnerable to corruption and abuse.
The legal profession is at a crossroads. Will we collectively take a stand in defense of the Constitution, or will we allow it to be eroded in real time? The future of the nation depends on lawyers responding to this moment with the conviction and courage it requires.
L4GG is actively seeking additional signatories. Interested legal professionals can read the full letter and sign on at L4GG.org/Constitution.