Stuart A. Sears

Stuart A. Sears is a partner at Schertler Onorato Mead & Sears, where he focuses his practice on white collar criminal defense, government investigations, and high-stakes enforcement matters. With extensive trial experience, Sears represents clients in complex criminal litigation, including matters involving fraud, antitrust violations, and securities enforcement.

Sears earned his Juris Doctor from American University’s Washington College of Law and holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Mary Washington. He is admitted to practice in Virginia and the District of Columbia, equipping him to appear in various state and federal jurisdictions.

Sears has developed a strong reputation in defending individuals and entities facing investigations by federal agencies such as the Department of Justice and the Securities and Exchange Commission. His work includes internal investigations, enforcement defense, and navigating parallel civil and criminal proceedings in highly regulated industries.

Sears has also handled litigation under the False Claims Act, defending clients in government-initiated suits and whistleblower actions. His litigation skills and knowledge of enforcement strategy make him a formidable advocate in FCA and antitrust defense.

Sears’ approach is marked by strategic clarity and a deep understanding of prosecutorial tactics, shaped in part by his firm’s collective experience, which includes former DOJ prosecutors and appellate advocates. He leverages that institutional insight to deliver informed, results-oriented legal representation.

Stuart A. Sears is known for his focused, client-centered advocacy, offering tailored counsel to individuals and businesses navigating sensitive legal disputes. His leadership at Schertler Onorato Mead & Sears continues to reinforce the firm’s standing as a premier white collar and litigation boutique in Washington, D.C.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Schertler Onorato Mead & Sears
• Member, National Trial Lawyers Association

Licensed State

• District of Columbia
• Virginia

Education

• American University, Washington College of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Mary Washington

Awards & Badges