About
Paola Pinto is an associate at Schertler Onorato Mead & Sears, where she focuses on white-collar criminal defense, civil litigation, and government investigations. Her practice includes representing clients in matters involving the Department of Justice, the SEC, and other regulatory bodies.
Pinto graduated cum laude from Georgetown University Law Center in 2018 and earned her B.A. in Political Science, also cum laude, from The George Washington University. She is admitted to practice in the District of Columbia and Florida, and is fluent in Spanish and proficient in French.
Prior to joining the firm in 2019, Pinto clerked for the Honorable Matthew J. Fader, Chief Judge of the Maryland Court of Special Appeals. Her externships at a global law firm in Mexico City and a multinational corporation’s general counsel’s office gave her a strong foundation in transnational legal matters.
Pinto represents clients in high-stakes litigation and complex government investigations, including securing a full trial acquittal for a foreign official in a federal criminal case. She advises and defends companies and individuals in FCPA, antitrust, and economic sanctions matters, and has significant experience handling Title IX proceedings and civil protection order cases. Her practice focuses on high-profile disputes and sensitive regulatory issues that demand strategic, discreet, and results-driven advocacy.
Paola Pinto’s practice reflects a commitment to client advocacy in both domestic and international contexts. She has helped guide clients through investigations related to PPP loan fraud, election-related inquiries, and sanctions compliance, often involving multinational corporations and cross-border issues.
Known for her legal insight and multilingual capabilities, Pinto delivers strategic representation in complex federal cases. Her experience and responsiveness make her an effective advocate for clients navigating serious legal and reputational challenges.
Law Office Affiliations
- Partner, Schertler Onorato Mead & Sears
- Member, Bar Association of the District of Columbia
- Member, Florida Bar Association
Licensed State
- Florida
- District of Columbia
Education
- Georgetown University Law Center
Juris Doctor (JD) - The George Washington University
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Awards & Badges


- Federal Crime
- White Collar Crime
- Antitrust & Trade Law
- Contracts & Agreements
- Litigation
- Sexual Harassment
- Wrongful Termination




