Michael T. Van Der Veen

Michael T. van der Veen has built a national reputation as a skilled trial attorney, trusted for both civil and criminal matters. He has secured multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements in personal injury cases and major criminal trial victories. His advocacy has extended to high-profile clients, where he is respected for taking on complex and controversial cases.

A graduate of Ohio Wesleyan University (B.A.) and Quinnipiac School of Law (J.D.), Michael earned an LLM in Trial Advocacy from Temple University. He graduated with the highest honors. This further honed his trial skills. He is also an alumnus of the prestigious National Criminal Defense College.

Michael launched his legal career as a criminal defense attorney in Chicago, earning national attention for his role in the Chicago Needle Trials, which resulted in a historic acquittal and meaningful legal reform. After years devoted solely to criminal defense, he broadened his Philadelphia practice to include personal injury and business litigation, representing both individuals and corporations in complex matters.

Michael has consistently been recognized for his excellence in trial law. From 2005 through 2024, he was selected to the Pennsylvania Super Lawyers® list, including recognition in Philadelphia’s Top 100 Lawyers for 2024. He was a finalist for the 2022 Pennsylvania Legal Awards Attorney of the Year and named among America’s Top 100 Attorneys®. 

Michael T. van der Veen continues to serve clients nationwide, representing them in both criminal and civil trials across jurisdictions. His ability to merge accessibility, compassion, and courtroom strength has earned him a place among the country’s most respected trial lawyers. For clients facing high-stakes litigation, his representation provides both protection and a path toward justice.

Law Office Affiliations

• Founder, van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim
• Board of Directors, American Diabetes Association
• Treasurer, Philadelphia Trial Lawyers Association
• Board of Governors, Philadelphia Bar Association
• Membership Coordinator, Philadelphia Trial Lawyers Association
• Member, Pennsylvania Association for Justice
• Board of Directors, Philadelphia Trial Lawyers Association

Licensed State

• Pennsylvania
• New Jersey
• Illinois

Education

• Temple University – James E. Beasley School of Law
  Master of Laws (LL.M)
• Quinnipiac School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Ohio Wesleyan University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges