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Paul Weiss Chairman Brad Karp Resigns After Epstein Emails

By Ma Fatima | Dated: 02-05-2026

Brad S. Karp, the long-time chairman of the prestigious Wall Street law firm Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP, has resigned from his leadership role amid widespread scrutiny following the release of newly unsealed emails showing his communications with the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The move marks a significant leadership shift at one of the United States’ most influential corporate law firms and highlights reputational risks tied to the public release of the so-called “Epstein files.”

Leadership Change at Paul Weiss

Paul Weiss announced on Thursday that Karp has stepped down as chairman after nearly two decades at the helm. He will be succeeded by Scott Barshay, a senior partner and head of the firm’s corporate department, who will take on the chairmanship effective immediately. Paul Weiss has emphasized that Karp will remain with the firm as a partner and continue serving clients, even as he relinquishes the top leadership position.

In a firm statement, Karp acknowledged that recent reporting and public attention surrounding the released emails had become “a distraction that is not in the best interest of the firm.” The firm also expressed regret over his interactions with Epstein, although it reiterated that neither Karp nor Paul Weiss ever represented Epstein in any legal matter.

What the Epstein Emails Reveal

The leadership change comes after the U.S. Department of Justice released millions of pages of previously sealed documents connected to the Epstein investigation, exposing extensive personal and business communications between Epstein and a range of high-profile individuals. Among the newly released emails were messages exchanged between Karp and Epstein detailing their interactions.

According to the published correspondence, Karp attended social dinners with Epstein and, in at least one instance, asked for Epstein’s assistance in helping his son secure a job within the film industry on a Woody Allen project. Emails also touched on other personal matters, further fueling media scrutiny. While these exchanges do not appear to reflect legal representation, they have intensified the spotlight on how senior leaders of major law firms associate with controversial figures.

Paul Weiss has stressed that its only connection to Epstein stemmed from a legal dispute involving Leon Black, co-founder and former chairman of Apollo Global Management, whom the firm represented in negotiations adverse to Epstein’s interests. The firm maintains that there was no formal attorney-client relationship between Paul Weiss or Karp and Epstein.

Karp’s Legacy at Paul Weiss

Under Brad Karp’s leadership, Paul Weiss grew into one of the most financially successful law firms in the world. The firm reported more than $2.6 billion in annual revenue in 2024, a milestone that reflected its strong position in litigation, corporate law, and representation of major financial institutions such as Apollo and Citigroup.

Karp was widely regarded as a decisive leader and a powerful rainmaker, known for representing Wall Street interests and driving business growth. He also raised Paul Weiss’ profile in public-interest work and political engagement, acting as a fundraiser and supporter of Democratic candidates including significant involvement in the 2024 presidential campaign of Kamala Harris.

Controversy Beyond the Epstein Emails

The Epstein email revelations were not the only controversy to shadow Karp’s tenure. In 2025, Paul Weiss and Karp drew criticism for negotiating an agreement with the Trump administration that involved pledging tens of millions of dollars in pro bono legal services in exchange for the rescission of an executive order that had restricted the firm’s access to federal work and government buildings. Critics argued the arrangement raised ethical questions, although Karp defended the decision as necessary to protect the firm’s clients and long-term viability.

Industry and Client Reactions

Industry analysts suggest that Paul Weiss’ decision to replace Karp as chairman reflects a broader effort to stabilize the firm’s reputation and reassure clients after intense media attention. For top law firms, leadership perception can directly impact high-stakes matters ranging from litigation to corporate transactions, and reputational risk has become a central concern in client retention and recruitment efforts.

Clients of Paul Weiss, which employs more than 1,000 attorneys across offices in New York, Washington, D.C., San Francisco, London, and other key markets, are likely watching the transition closely. The appointment of Barshay known for his corporate dealmaking expertise signals continuity in the firm’s core practices and a pivot toward reinforcing confidence among corporate clients.

Looking Ahead

The revelation of the Epstein files has reignited public and media interest in how powerful figures and institutions manage their private associations and ethical obligations. While Karp’s resignation does not equate to an admission of legal wrongdoing, it underscores how reputational challenges can affect even the most established leaders in Big Law. Paul Weiss’ handling of the situation will likely influence how other firms approach internal oversight and external communications when engaging with controversial figures and high-profile matters.

As Scott Barshay steps into the role of chairman, Paul Weiss faces the task of navigating media scrutiny, client expectations, and the broader discourse around legal professionalism and leadership accountability in an era of heightened transparency and public interest.

Stay ahead in Big Law as leadership shifts reshape the legal industry. Explore thousands of verified attorney and law firm jobs updated daily on LawCrossing and take the next step in your legal career today.


 
 

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