Morning Docket: 02.20.26
Above the Law
by Above the LawFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The latest legal developments highlight a mix of high-stakes scandals, ethical dilemmas, and significant policy changes. Files have revealed that Kathy Ruemmler, a former White House counsel, met with Jeffrey Epstein regarding the Secret Service prostitution scandal. While consulting experts is crucial, this raises questions about the timing and implications of such meetings, drawing scrutiny over potential ethics violations.
Meanwhile, a daughter's furious email to hundreds of law firms has gone viral. Alleging that a legal recruiter had an affair with her father, she titled the email "WHORE," sparking discussions about workplace misconduct and the role of law firms in addressing such allegations. Her actions underscore the growing trend of individuals taking matters into their own hands to expose wrongdoing.
In another major development, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a new order expanding its authority to detain legal refugees. This move has sparked concerns among immigration advocates, who argue that it could disrupt families and strain already limited resources. The policy shift reflects broader tensions over U.S. immigration policies and their impact on vulnerable populations.
On the corporate front, JPMorgan Chase is battling claims in a $5 billion lawsuit filed by Donald Trump. The bank argues that Trump fraudulently included it in his legal disputes, raising questions about the scope of the litigation and its implications for financial institutions entangled in high-profile cases.
Additionally, a lawyer who continued practicing after losing his license has been fined $30,000 for violating rules. This case highlights the importance of professional conduct and the consequences of ignoring ethical standards, particularly when it comes to public trust in the legal profession.
Lastly, former Google engineers are at the
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Originally published on Above the Law on 2/20/2026