Berit Winge Berger

Berit Winge Berger is an experienced attorney with a strong background in criminal defense law, public integrity, and legal policy. She’s now a lecturer in law at Columbia Law School. She has held senior roles in government and academia, including serving as Executive Assistant District Attorney and Chief Ethics Officer in Westchester County. In these roles, she advised on policy, guided ethical standards, and helped improve legal processes. She also led initiatives that supported fair enforcement of the law and strengthened trust between legal institutions and the communities they serve overall.

Berit completed her legal education at Columbia Law School, where she developed a strong foundation in legal research, writing, and advocacy, and got her J.D. Her academic training prepared her for complex litigation and public service roles. At Columbia Law School, she gained practical skills through coursework and legal practice workshops that focused on real-world issues. This education supported her ability to analyze cases, communicate clearly, and provide sound legal guidance in high-stakes matters throughout her professional career.

Berit served as an Assistant United States Attorney in both the Eastern and Southern Districts of New York from 2007 to 2018. She handled a wide range of federal criminal cases, including matters involving terrorism, violent crime, trafficking, and racketeering. She conducted jury trials and argued appeals before the Second Circuit Court of Appeals. Her work helped protect public safety and ensure accountability, while also supporting victims and upholding the integrity of the justice system in complex and challenging cases.

Berit Winge Berger has also contributed to advancing public integrity through leadership roles at Columbia Law School and in government service. As Executive Director of the Center for the Advancement of Public Integrity, she worked on anti-corruption efforts and advised international organizations, including the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. She helped develop guidance for investigating and prosecuting corruption cases. Her work has improved legal standards, promoted transparency, and supported fair outcomes for communities and institutions across diverse legal systems.

Law Office Affiliations

• Former Executive Assistant District Attorney, Westchester County District Attorney’s Office
• Former Federal Prosecutor, Eastern & Southern Districts of New York
• Adjunct Professor, Columbia & Fordham Law Schools
• Member, New York State Bar Association

Licensed State

• New York

Education

• Columbia Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)

Awards & Badges