Les Wexner’s Lawyer’s Deposition Advice: ‘I’ll F-ing Kill You If You Answer Another Question With More Than Five Words, OK?’

Above the Law

by Joe Patrice

February 20, 2026

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Les Wexner’s lawyer stepped in during a recent deposition with a blunt warning to his client: “I’ll f-ing kill you if you answer another question with more than five words, OK?” The moment captured widespread attention, highlighting the tense dynamics often seen in legal proceedings involving wealthy and influential figures. Wexner, the founder of Victoria’s Secret and a longtime acquaintance of Jeffrey Epstein, faced questioning as part of a House Oversight Committee investigation. His rambling responses during the deposition prompted his attorney, Michael Levy, to impose a strict five-word limit on his answers. This move sparked mixed reactions—while some viewed it as an example of privilege and avoidance of accountability, others noted that such tight controls are often necessary to prevent witnesses from divulging unnecessary details or wasting time. The incident reflects broader tensions between the legal profession and public perception of justice. Non-lawyers tend to see such tactics as evidence of systemic favoritism toward the wealthy, while lawyers recognize them as practical measures to keep depositions focused. Depositions are designed to gather relevant information efficiently, and rambling answers can derail this process. By limiting Wexner’s responses, Levy aimed to maintain control and ensure that the questioning remained productive. The moment also drew comparisons to previous high-profile depositions, such as former LA Clippers owner Donald Sterling’s infamous 2003 testimony, which included similarly off-the-cuff remarks. Ultimately, the legal community sees this approach as a standard tactic rather than an outlier. While it may seem harsh, it aligns with the goal of keeping depositions on track and avoiding distractions. However, such methods also raise questions about transparency and accountability in legal processes involving powerful individuals. As Wexner’s case continues to unfold, the broader implications of how wealthy defendants navigate legal proceedings remain a key point of public interest and debate.

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Originally published on Above the Law on 2/20/2026