Paul Weiss Chair Brad Karp Steps Down Following Release of Epstein Communications
In a sudden move that sent shockwaves through the legal world, Brad Karp resigned Wednesday as chairman of the prestigious law firm Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison. The decision comes on the heels of a recent document dump by the Justice Department related to the Jeffrey Epstein case, which included years of email exchanges between Karp and the disgraced financier.
"Recent reporting has created a distraction and has placed a focus on me that is not in the best interests of the firm," Karp said in a statement released by Paul Weiss, confirming his resignation was effective immediately. The firm clarified that Karp, who has spent his entire 40-year career there and chaired the firm since 2008, will remain as a partner focusing on client service.
The newly public correspondence, spanning from 2015 to 2019, paints a picture of a professional and at times personal relationship. Dozens of emails show Karp planning meetings at Epstein's New York townhouse, offering feedback on legal motions related to Epstein's sex trafficking plea deal, and exchanging effusive pleasantries. In one 2015 email, Karp wrote "you're amazing" to Epstein after describing "an evening I'll never forget." Another exchange in 2016 reveals Karp asking Epstein for help securing film work with Woody Allen for his son.
Paul Weiss has stated that neither the firm nor Karp ever formally represented Epstein. Karp expressed regret this week for the interactions. However, for a firm that represents corporate titans like Exxon Mobil and Meta Platforms and steers landmark deals, the association with a convicted sex offender poses a significant reputational crisis. The fallout adds to existing controversy from Karp's 2020 agreement with the Trump White House to provide $40 million in pro bono services for presidential initiatives—a deal later rescinded after fierce backlash.
Scott Barshay, a highly regarded corporate lawyer at the firm, will succeed Karp as chairman. The leadership transition aims to stabilize a pillar of the legal establishment now grappling with the uncomfortable details of its former chair's connections.
Reaction & Analysis
Eleanor Vance, Legal Ethics Professor at Georgetown: "This isn't just about bad optics. For the chair of a firm like Paul Weiss to have this volume of correspondence with Epstein, discussing his legal strategy and personal favors, crosses a bright ethical line. It creates a perception problem that undermines the firm's standing, regardless of the lack of formal representation."
Marcus Thorne, Former Federal Prosecutor: "The documents show Karp was actively engaged in Epstein's legal defense planning. While not illegal, it's deeply troubling for a lawyer of his stature. His resignation was likely seen as a necessary circuit-breaker to protect the firm's brand and client relationships."
David Chen, Associate at a Mid-Size Firm (Sharper Tone): "'Distraction' is a pathetic euphemism. This is about being caught. The emails show cozy camaraderie and legal assistance for a monster. The entire 'white-shoe' legal culture that turns a blind eye to power and access needs a reckoning. Resigning as chair but staying on as partner is a slap on the wrist, not accountability."
Rebecca Shaw, Crisis Communications Consultant: "The firm is executing a classic containment strategy: isolate the individual, affirm core values, and promote a respected insider. The challenge will be whether clients perceive this as genuine change or mere reputation laundering. The shadow of these emails will linger."