Paul Weiss Chairman Resigns Amid Epstein Email Fallout

Fri Feb 06 2026 01:10:44 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Brad Karp resigns from Paul Weiss after emails reveal his connections to Jeffrey Epstein, amid growing scrutiny of high-profile ties to the late financier and ongoing investigations.

Brad Karp, the chairman of the prestigious law firm Paul Weiss, has resigned after emails came to light showing his interactions with Jeffrey Epstein. The firm, which Karp has been with for 40 years, stated that his resignation is in the interest of the firm following recent media scrutiny. The fallout continues as others, including Bill and Hillary Clinton, face calls to testify regarding their past associations with Epstein, and a transparency law has resulted in the release of extensive Epstein-related documents by the Justice Department. The situation is drawing significant attention, not just in the U.S. but internationally, leading to resignations and public apologies from various officials.

Brad Karp, chairman of one of the country’s most prestigious law firms, has resigned from his position after the release of emails revealing his exchanges with Jeffrey Epstein, a prominent figure in litigation concerning his history of sexual abuse. This high-profile resignation marks a significant fallout among public figures connected to Epstein, who died in jail amid investigation of his alleged sex trafficking network.

Karp remains at Paul, Weiss, where he has practiced for four decades, citing that recent reporting has created a distraction and has placed a focus on me that is not in the best interests of Paul Weiss. The firm has asserted that it has never represented Epstein.

In a public disclosure last week, the Department of Justice released a substantial batch of documents regarding Epstein, which is required by a new law aimed at clarifying the extent of Epstein's dealings with high-profile individuals, particularly in relation to accusations of sexual abuse.

Prominent figures Bill and Hillary Clinton have also agreed to testify before a House committee regarding their connections to Epstein after pressure from Republican lawmakers, which could potentially lead to contempt of Congress charges. Both Clintons have denied any misconduct during their association with Epstein, a situation that remains murky as investigations unfold.

Further problematics have emerged internationally, with a top Slovakian official resigning after his ties to Epstein were revealed following the release of these emails. Additionally, British officials are facing scrutiny for their past associations with Epstein's circle.

Among the newly surfaced emails, Karp thanked Epstein for hosting a memorable event, describing it as 'once in a lifetime', showcasing a level of familiarity that has raised eyebrows. Such communications have led to deeper investigations into Epstein's network and his connections with both political and corporate leaders.

The Justice Department's release of extensive files includes significant correspondence around Epstein's interactions with various high-profile men, including proposals for legal assistance in controversial situations, revealing layers of complexity within Epstein's relations beyond just personal connections.

As the ramifications of these revelations continue, Paul Weiss, founded in 1875 with a storied legacy of legal representation in civil rights and corporate affairs, now faces challenges that could impact its reputation and future.