New York Legal Titan Steps Down Following Epstein Email Revelations
A prominent New York City attorney has resigned from his leadership role at a prestigious law firm after shocking email correspondence with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein was made public. The messages appear to show the lawyer discussing strategies to handle a client's alleged extramarital affair.
Resignation Amid Growing Controversy
Brad Karp officially stepped down as chairman of the white-shoe law firm Paul Weiss on Wednesday. His resignation came swiftly after the Department of Justice released files detailing his communications with Epstein, who died by suicide in a New York jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges.
Karp had represented private equity investor Leon Black, who reportedly paid Epstein approximately $160 million between 2012 and 2017 for tax and estate planning advice. According to the New York Times, Karp's involvement with the disgraced financier became a significant concern within the firm.
Disturbing Email Exchanges Revealed
The newly released documents show multiple email exchanges between Karp and Epstein that went beyond professional legal matters. In one particularly troubling message, Epstein suggested that Black should hire a private investigator to surveil his former mistress. In another, Epstein urged Karp to investigate the woman's visa status, asking specifically about the possibility of revoking her tourist visa.
Karp responded positively to these suggestions, writing 'Both good ideas; will work on this' in his reply. Sources familiar with the matter told the New York Times that Paul Weiss lawyers were deeply disturbed by these exchanges.
Karp's Statement and Continued Employment
In his resignation statement, Karp acknowledged that recent reporting had created what he called a 'distraction' for the law firm. 'Leading Paul, Weiss for the past 18 years has been the honor of my professional life,' he stated. 'Recent reporting has created a distraction and has placed a focus on me that is not in the best interests of the firm.'
Despite stepping down as chairman, Karp will remain employed at Paul Weiss and continue to focus on client services. He has spent his entire 40-year legal career at the firm and had served as chairman since 2008.
Broader Context and Additional Revelations
The latest document release contained serious allegations against Leon Black, including claims of sexual abuse. Black was sued in 2023 over accusations that he raped an autistic 16-year-old girl, though his lawyers have denied he ever met the teenager. That lawsuit remains ongoing.
Earlier this week, Paul Weiss issued a statement expressing Karp's regret for his interactions with Epstein. The firm noted that Karp had attended two group dinners in New York City and had 'a small number of social interactions by email, all of which he regrets.'
Personal Favors and Social Connections
The emails reveal a surprisingly personal relationship between Karp and Epstein. After one dinner in 2015, Karp sent Epstein an email of gratitude, calling it 'an evening I'll never forget' and describing it as 'truly "once in a lifetime" in every way.' He expressed hope to be invited again, to which Epstein replied, 'You are always welcome. There are many, many nights of unique talents. You will be invited often.'
In another exchange, Karp appeared to ask Epstein for assistance in securing a job for his son, David, with filmmaker Woody Allen. Karp wrote that his son 'certainly doesn't need to be paid and he's a really good, talented kid.' Epstein responded that he would inquire about the possibility. David Karp later thanked Epstein for his 'interest in helping [his] film career.'
Firm's Recent Controversies
This is not the first time Paul Weiss has faced public scrutiny. Last year, the firm offered former President Donald Trump $40 million in free legal services, which sparked backlash and accusations of engaging in 'illegal DEI practices.'
Following the Epstein email revelations, Karp cancelled a scheduled speaking appearance at the Wall Street Journal's Invest Live event in Palm Beach. The Daily Mail has reached out to Paul Weiss, Brad Karp, David Karp, and a spokesperson for Leon Black for comment on these developments.
