Who is Brad Karp and why does it matter to investors?

Brad Karp led Paul Weiss, a major Wall Street law firm that advises on complex deals and litigation. His resignation after DOJ-released Epstein emails raises ESG and reputational questions. Investors care because counsel stability can affect transaction timing, legal strategy, disclosure, and costs. Short-term mandate reviews or reassignments can nudge spreads, fees, and closing timelines on sensitive transactions.

Why did Brad Karp resign now?

He stepped down following renewed scrutiny tied to DOJ-released Epstein emails. Leadership changes during reputational stress aim to protect clients and the institution. The move signals a reset, allowing the new chair to address governance, client communications, and risk controls. Investors should watch for updated vendor policies, RFP outcomes, and board-level oversight disclosures in coming quarters.

Who is taking over at Paul Weiss and what changes are likely?

Scott Barshay has been named successor. We expect a focus on continuity with tighter governance checks, fuller conflict reviews, and clearer engagement documentation. Clients may use dual-counsel approaches temporarily. Look for the firm to emphasize client assurance, external reviews, and faster approvals on sensitive matters, as it works to stabilize mandates following Brad Karp’s exit.

Could this impact APO and C shares?

Any price effect is hard to isolate. For context, recent data show APO at $126.85 and C at $117.71. Governance headlines can add short-term volatility or delay closings, which may affect fees or spreads. The better signal will be earnings commentary on vendor diligence, legal costs, and timeline impacts, plus any noted changes in deal counsel allocations.

Law and Government

Brad Karp Today, February 05: Paul Weiss Chair Resigns Amid Epstein Fallout

ByDanny Kontos February 6, 2026February 6, 2026

Brad Karp resigned as Paul Weiss chairman on Feb. 5 after DOJ-released Epstein emails drew renewed scrutiny. Scott Barshay will take over, marking the first leadership change at the firm in years. For investors, this raises immediate ESG and reputational risk questions for client-facing mandates across Wall Street. Watch potential near-term impact on Apollo Global Management (APO) and Citigroup (C), as deal counsel choices, litigation strategy, and governance screens may shift. We break down what changed, why it matters, and the key data to track next.