Michael D. Padula

Michael D. Padula is a trial attorney and founder of Padula Law who defends companies and individuals in white-collar criminal matters, government investigations, asset forfeiture cases, and civil litigation. His criminal defense practice includes federal and violent crime matters, while his broader work addresses anti-money laundering compliance, regulatory issues, and high-stakes disputes. He serves clients from offices in Washington, D.C. and Miami and draws on substantial federal prosecutorial experience.

Michael earned a J.D. from Catholic University of America Columbus School of Law in 1999 and a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Hartford in 1996. He is admitted in the District of Columbia, Florida, and Maryland, and before several federal and state courts. His legal education and prosecutorial training support his ability to evaluate evidence, financial records, regulatory concerns, and investigative strategy in complex criminal and civil matters.

Michael previously served as a trial attorney in the Criminal Division of the U.S. Department of Justice and as a special assistant U.S. attorney. He investigated and prosecuted money laundering, securities fraud, FCPA matters, bank and wire fraud, health care fraud, Ponzi schemes, and Bank Secrecy Act violations. He also coordinated parallel matters with agencies including FINRA, OFAC, and the SEC and handled electronic surveillance in significant investigations.

Michael D. Padula brings an insider understanding of federal investigations and enforcement to his defense practice. His experience includes international money laundering matters, Medicare fraud investigations, corruption cases, asset forfeiture, antitrust filings, insurance recovery litigation, and regulatory disputes. He also speaks on anti-corruption, tax evasion, money laundering, and compliance topics. This background helps clients assess government scrutiny, protect their interests, and prepare for demanding criminal, regulatory, and civil proceedings.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Padula Law
• Member, District of Columbia Bar
• Member, The Florida Bar
• Member, Maryland State Bar Association

Licensed State

• District of Columbia
• Florida
• Maryland

Education

• Catholic University of America Columbus School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Hartford
  Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Political Science

Awards & Badges