Paul Weiss Chairman Brad Karp Resigns Amid Epstein Email Fallout

Fri Feb 06 2026 01:22:28 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Brad Karp has stepped down from his role at Paul Weiss following revelations of his communications with Jeffrey Epstein as new documents surface in the Epstein investigation.

Brad Karp, the chairman of prominent law firm Paul Weiss, has resigned amidst controversy stemming from emails revealing his friendship with the late Jeffrey Epstein. Karp acknowledged that ongoing press coverage has become a distraction detrimental to the firm's interests. The emails in question came to light during a federal investigation into Epstein and included discussions about connections with other high-profile figures. The implications of this scandal are resonating beyond the U.S., causing resignations and apologies among international leaders connected to Epstein. Karp's resignation marks a significant shift in leadership at a firm that has been historically influential in legal and civil rights work.

Brad Karp, chairman of one of the country’s most prestigious law firms, Paul Weiss, has submitted his resignation following the revelation of emails that document his interactions with the late Jeffrey Epstein. Epstein, a convicted sex offender, was at the center of major legal controversies that have impacted notable figures worldwide.

In a statement issued by the firm, Karp, who has been with Paul Weiss for four decades and has served as chairman since 2008, stated that recent reporting has created an unwarranted focus on him and has distracted from the firm’s interests. Paul Weiss has clarified that it never represented Epstein.

This incident follows the release of numerous documents by the Department of Justice, which aimed to detail the extent of Epstein's network and allegations against him, contributing to the ongoing scrutiny of those in Epstein's orbit.

Notably, former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton have agreed to testify before a House committee regarding their connections to Epstein as pressure mounts for accountability. Both have longstanding ties to Epstein but have been denied any wrongdoing.

The ramifications of this scandal are reverberating internationally. A top official from Slovakia resigned after connections to Epstein were revealed, while UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer apologized for appointing an ambassador linked to him.

Amid this fallout, Karp's emails also contained personal anecdotes, such as a dinner invitation from Epstein which Karp described as a memorable event. His communications over the years included discussions on potential connections for his son’s film career and advice for individuals entangled in past legal issues related to Epstein.

The emails portray a complex relationship wherein Karp appeared to seek advice from Epstein, even as allegations against Epstein continued to surface. This has prompted a reevaluation of Karp’s professional connections and highlighted the potential ethical dilemmas involved.

Founded in 1875, Paul Weiss has a long history of influencing civil rights and corporate law. Karp’s resignation and the subsequent fallout signal a notable shift both for him and the firm as it navigates these controversies.