About Michele
Michele Roberts: Renowned Trial Lawyer Specializing in Complex Litigation
Michele Roberts is a nationally recognized and highly respected trial lawyer, distinguished as a member of the firm’s Litigation Group. She possesses a remarkable track record, having successfully tried over 100 cases to jury verdicts, representing a diverse range of clients in complex civil and white-collar criminal litigation before state and federal courts, and in administrative proceedings. Ms. Roberts’ dedication to her craft has earned her the esteemed title of ‘the finest pure trial lawyer in Washington, D.C.’ by Washingtonian Magazine, a testament to her courtroom prowess and strategic thinking.
As a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, Ms. Roberts’ commitment to upholding the highest standards of legal advocacy is unwavering. Her career began with eight impactful years in the Office of the Public Defender Service for the District of Columbia, where she served as Chief of the Trial Division and secured more than 40 jury trials. This formative experience, coupled with her profound understanding of the legal system, informs her approach to every case she handles.
Prominent Harvard law professor Charles Ogletree, Jr. powerfully articulated Ms. Roberts’ courtroom ability, stating, “she becomes the 13th juror, capable of seeing the case as the jury sees it, and therefore able to revise strategy, as necessary, mid-trial to address the jury’s concerns.” This insightful observation highlights her exceptional ability to connect with juries and tailor her arguments for maximum impact. Repeatedly recognized as a top litigation lawyer – consistently ranked in the top tier for Litigation: Trial Lawyers in Chambers Global and Chambers USA – Ms. Roberts has been awarded the Business Trial Lawyer of the Year at the Chambers USA Awards of Excellence (2011) and was a finalist in the “Litigator of the Year” category at the inaugural Chambers USA Women in Law Awards (2012). Her achievements have been further validated through numerous accolades, including being named one of Benchmark Litigation’s “Top 250 Women in Litigation” (2013), inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America (2013-2014), recognition as a “Top Gun” in the Ethisphere® Institute’s “Attorneys Who Matter” rankings (2012), and inclusion in Who’s Who Legal – Business Crime Defense (2013) and Lawdragon 500 Leading Lawyers in America (2013).
Ms. Roberts’ contributions extend beyond her courtroom successes. She is a frequent lecturer and presenter to the bench and bar, offering valuable insights on a wide array of litigation and trial practice topics. She currently serves as an adjunct member of the faculty at Harvard Law School, teaching a Trial Advocacy Workshop and instructing with the National Institute of Trial Advocacy, continuing her commitment to shaping the next generation of legal professionals.
Practice Areas
- Criminal Defense: White-Collar
- Products Liability
- Racketeering
- Securities Regulation Violations
- Title VII Issues
- Premises Liability
- Complex Civil Litigation
- General Litigation
Education & Credentials
- Harvard Law School
- Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers
- Served as Chief of the Trial Division, Office of the Public Defender Service for the District of Columbia
- Tried over 100 cases to jury verdicts
Awards & Recognition
- Lawyer of the Year: Criminal Defense: White-Collar (2015, 2012)
- Recognized: Criminal Defense: White-Collar
- Ranked in Best Attorney USA since 2005
- Named “Women Who Mean Business” by the Washington Business Journal (2010)
- Top 30 Lawyers in Washington, D.C. (2007 – Washingtonian Magazine)
- Named to Washington’s “100 Most Powerful Women” (2009 – Washingtonian Magazine)
- Top 10 White Collar Lawyers in Washington, D.C. (2006 – The Legal Times)
Affiliations
- American College of Trial Lawyers
- National Institute of Trial Advocacy
Contact Information
City: New YorkState: New YorkCountry: United States
