The scandal prompted by the US government’s release of Jeffrey Epstein’s correspondence appeared to claim its first legal victim this week with the resignation of the chairman of a venerable New York firm. Brad Karp announced he was stepping down from his leadership at Paul Weiss Rifkind Wharton & Garrison over the 'distraction' caused by 'recent reporting'.
New York-based Paul Weiss was founded in 1875. It now has more than 1,000 lawyers at offices across North America, Europe and Asia.
Documents released by the US Department of Justice this week include email correspondence between Karp and Epstein. US media reports state that the emails are dated between 2013 and 2019, following Epstein's conviction for solicitation of prostitution with a minor under the age of 18.
The emails reference social engagements and professional matters, including Epstein’s legal issues. Paul Weiss has said that neither the firm nor Karp ever represented Epstein.
Litigation partner Karp chaired Paul Weiss since 2008. During his tenure, the firm grew into one of the most powerful on Wall Street, with revenues of more than $2.6bn in 2024.
The firm and Karp faced criticism last year over an agreement to provide $40m in pro bono services to causes supported by the White House following an executive order threatening to restrict its access to government work.
Corporate partner Scott Barshay will succeed Karp as chairman.
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