Top U.S. Lawyer in Legal Trouble Amid IRS Evasion Allegations

Washington, D.C. — August 10, 2025
A once-respected U.S. Supreme Court lawyer, Tom Goldstein, is facing serious legal trouble after federal prosecutors unveiled a new set of allegations this week, intensifying the legal drama surrounding one of the most recognizable names in American legal circles.

Goldstein, who co-founded the widely-read legal blog SCOTUSblog and has argued over 40 cases before the U.S. Supreme Court, is now accused of evading the IRS by funneling nearly $1 million into a client trust account—funds he allegedly used to purchase a Washington, D.C., home. Prosecutors also claim he offered lavish incentives, including cryptocurrency and student loan assistance, to a former firm manager in an attempt to obstruct the federal investigation.

The case has shocked many in the legal community, where Goldstein had earned a reputation not just for his legal acumen but for his public commentary on major U.S. Supreme Court decisions. “This is a man who built his image on integrity and legal scholarship,” said one former colleague, who requested anonymity. “It’s hard to believe he’s now being accused of such serious misconduct.”

The indictment paints a very different picture—one of calculated deception and a willingness to manipulate legal systems for personal gain. If convicted, Goldstein could face decades in federal prison.

Meanwhile, the legal industry continues to experience major shifts.

A New Legal Giant is Born

In a major development for the U.S. legal landscape, McDermott Will & Emery and Schulte Roth & Zabel officially completed a high-stakes merger last week. The newly combined firm, named McDermott Will & Schulte, now stands as one of the largest legal entities in the country, with nearly 1,800 lawyers and a revenue of more than $2.8 billion in 2024 alone.

The merger highlights a growing trend in the legal industry—firms seeking expansion through consolidation to gain influence in critical markets such as New York and Washington.

Jeanine Pirro Confirmed as U.S. Attorney for D.C.

On Capitol Hill, former television personality and judge Jeanine Pirro was confirmed as the new U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C., in a tightly contested 50–45 Senate vote. Pirro, known for her outspoken views and long-time friendship with former President Donald Trump, has drawn criticism from legal scholars and Democratic lawmakers, who fear her appointment could politicize the office.

Still, supporters argue that Pirro brings decades of legal experience and toughness to the role.

Celebrity Court Drama: Blake Lively Moves Against Opposing Lawyer

In another headline-grabbing legal feud, actress Blake Lively has asked the court to sanction Justin Baldoni’s lawyer, Bryan Freedman, for allegedly leaking confidential details of her deposition in an ongoing civil case. Lively’s legal team argues the leak was a publicity stunt, calling it “a gross abuse of professional conduct.”

The case has reignited discussions about the ethical limits of lawyers operating in high-profile celebrity cases and how much influence the media should have over ongoing litigation.

Conclusion

From courtrooms to conference rooms, lawyers remain at the center of some of the nation’s most consequential stories—whether they’re fighting for justice or defending themselves against it. The coming weeks promise to bring more clarity to these cases, but one thing is certain: the legal world is under the microscope like never before.