Kathryn Ruemmler, former White House Counsel under President Barack Obama and later a partner at Latham & Watkins, has been linked to significant financial gains for the law firm through her association with Jeffrey Epstein. Recent disclosures reveal that Epstein’s referrals resulted in millions of dollars in revenue for Latham & Watkins during Ruemmler’s tenure.
Between 2014 and 2019, while Ruemmler was a partner at Latham & Watkins, she maintained a professional relationship with Epstein. Documents indicate that Epstein referred substantial business to the firm, contributing significantly to its earnings. This period coincides with numerous communications between Ruemmler and Epstein, as well as the exchange of gifts, including luxury items and substantial gift cards. Ruemmler has stated that her interactions with Epstein were professional and that she regrets ever knowing him. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_people_named_in_the_Epstein_files?utm_source=openai))
In 2020, Ruemmler transitioned from Latham & Watkins to Goldman Sachs, where she served as Chief Legal Officer and General Counsel. Her compensation at Goldman Sachs was notable, with reports indicating she earned $22.5 million in 2024 and $25 million in 2025. In February 2026, amid scrutiny over her past association with Epstein, Ruemmler announced her resignation from Goldman Sachs, effective at the end of June 2026. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kathryn_Ruemmler?utm_source=openai))
The revelations about Epstein’s referrals to Latham & Watkins and the subsequent financial benefits have raised questions about the ethical considerations of such associations. Legal professionals emphasize the importance of transparency and due diligence in client relationships to maintain the integrity of the legal profession.
As the legal community continues to grapple with the implications of these disclosures, the case underscores the necessity for law firms to scrutinize client affiliations and the potential reputational risks they may pose.