Quick Facts on Brad Karp: The Longtime Paul Weiss Chairman Revealed to Exchange Emails With Epstein

Brad Karp, the longstanding chairman of Paul Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP, one of America's premier corporate law firms, stepped down abruptly on 4 February 2026 amid revelations of his email exchanges with the late disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein.

The resignation caps a distinguished yet tumultuous 18-year tenure at the helm of a firm renowned for representing global giants like Amazon, Exxon Mobil and the National Football League, while also championing pro bono work for the underprivileged and immigrants.

With over 1,200 lawyers across 10 offices worldwide—and a new one forthcoming in Houston—Paul Weiss has evolved under Karp's leadership from a litigation powerhouse to a corporate deal-making juggernaut.

Early Career and Rise to Prominence

Karp's legal journey began at Paul Weiss, where he spent his entire 40-year career. Appointed chairman in 2008, he steered the firm through significant growth, advising on high-stakes matters that solidified its reputation for innovative solutions to complex challenges.

His leadership transformed Paul Weiss, expanding practice areas and geographies, as noted in the firm's announcement of his successor. Karp was widely regarded as one of Wall Street's most influential lawyers, known for his connections and ability to navigate elite circles.

Controversial Deal with Trump Administration

In March 2025, Karp faced backlash within the legal community after Paul Weiss struck a deal with the Trump administration to circumvent an executive order that might have barred the firm from federal government representations. Viewed by many as a capitulation, the agreement led to the departure of several prominent partners.

Karp defended the move, arguing it was essential to the firm's survival and client service, especially given potential restrictions like barring lawyers from federal buildings. Although criticism mounted, particularly after other firms successfully challenged similar orders in court, Karp appeared to stabilise the situation.

Epstein Emails and Social Ties

The catalyst for Karp's downfall emerged from emails released by the Department of Justice, exposing his social interactions with Epstein post-2008, when Epstein had pleaded guilty to soliciting prostitution from a minor and registered as a sex offender. Karp met Epstein through his client Leon Black, the Apollo Global Management co-founder who paid Epstein nearly $170 million for advice.

The emails detailed Karp attending a 2015 dinner at Epstein's New York mansion with filmmaker Woody Allen, thanking Epstein as an 'extraordinary host' and calling him 'amazing.' Karp even sought Epstein's assistance in securing a job for his son on a Woody Allen film.

Additional emails suggested Epstein advised Black on surveilling a former mistress, which upset some Paul Weiss lawyers. Karp issued a statement regretting his 'limited' interactions—two group dinners and a few emails—stating they were ill-advised.

Resignation and Aftermath

On Wednesday evening, Paul Weiss announced Karp's immediate resignation, with no explicit reason provided beyond his quote: 'Recent reporting has created a distraction and has placed a focus on me that is not in the best interests of the firm.'

Karp, who will remain at Paul Weiss focusing on client service, reflected: 'Leading Paul, Weiss for the past 18 years has been the honour of my professional life.'

Succession and Firm's Future

Scott Barshay, formerly head of the corporate department, succeeds Karp. With over 30 years of experience advising boards on complex matters, Barshay joined Cravath in 2016. He praised Karp's 'immense contributions' and 'extraordinary dedication,' emphasising the firm's commitment to excellence. This shift underscores Paul Weiss's pivot towards corporate law, amid ongoing tensions between litigators and deal-makers highlighted by the Trump episode.