This story was originally printed in Matt Stoller’s newsletter BIG, where he explores the politics of monopoly power.
For a long time, I’ve discussed a secret center of power in America, what is known as “Big Law,” a network of law firms that serve as a shadow government for the out-of-power party.
Lawyers have always had a special place in America. They must maintain a dual loyalty, serving clients with advice and court representation, but serving the public as officers of the court. There’s a dense ethical code lawyers must maintain. For instance, they can’t help their clients break the law, and they can’t switch sides in a dispute.
