The white-collar defense and investigations team at Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP is co-chaired by William Stellmach , Michael Schachter, and San Francisco-based Michael Li-Ming Wong. Stellmach is located in Washington DC and has a broad range of experience advising on matters related to economic sanctions, corruption, bribery, and false claims. Based in New York, Schachter has a strong track record defending high-profile individuals facing allegations of fraud. Marina Torres and Koren Bell joined the office in Los Angeles in January 2023 and May 2023 respectively. Torres joined from Halpern May Ybarra Gelberg LLP; bringing experience of internal corporate investigations to the firm. Having previously worked at Larson LLP, Bell frequently represents major companies and high-profile individuals embroiled in complex litigation cases. Jeffrey Clark and Martin Weinstein departed the Washington DC office in February 2023, while Randall Jackson left the New York office in September 2023.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

'William Stellmach's extensive experience and expertise in white-collar defense and internal investigations are exceptional. His background as a former Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York gives him an in-depth understanding of government enforcement and regulatory matters. This experience allows him to offer unparalleled counsel to clients facing complex legal challenges.'
'William Stellmach's representation is characterized by a meticulous attention to detail, a deep understanding of the law, and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for his clients. He crafts innovative legal strategies tailored to each client's specific needs and circumstances. His track record of successful defense in high-stakes cases speaks to his exceptional capabilities.'
‘They have effective advocates in the courtroom and in government facing investigations. They are equally capable of taking on institutional and individual representations. They also have an excellent team to work with as co-counsel.’
‘Michael Schachter is a superb and very complete lawyer. He is great with clients. He is very effective in dealing with government lawyers and an excellent courtroom advocate.’
‘Koren Bell demonstrates passion, professionalism, determination, and preparation. She is focused, confident, and motivated throughout a trial.’
‘Koren Bell brings a combination of hard work, dedication and passion to the work she does on behalf of her clients. She is an articulate and passionate advocate as well as a clear writer in her motions practice.’
‘Willkie Farr's trade compliance practice is first rate. Their depth of knowledge and their ability to get clients in front of the right people at the Department of State to present their case is very valuable.’
‘William Stellmach is outstanding.’

Key clients

Bank of Nova Scotia
CareDx, Inc.
Pivotal Investment Corporation
Archipelago Trading Services
Executive Chamber of New York State
Google
State Bar of CA
Edison International
Thomas Barrack
Rafael Martinez
Sergio Pasin
Shradha Agarwal
Jovan Vavic
Robert Russell
William Hutchinson
Ramin Salari
Arman Gabay

Work highlights

Selected by both the U.S. DOJ and the CFTC to serve as the monitor for the Bank of Nova Scotia in a dual appointment.
Advised a defendant regarding allegations of illegal foreign lobbying related to more than $300m in PE investments, obstruction of justice, and conspiracy.
Representing a defendant who has been indicted for his alleged role in a conspiracy to defraud U.S. regulators and customers.