Michelle Heyer

Beachwood,OH

Summary

Legal Professional with a proven record of bringing matters of high complexity and sensitivity to successful resolution. Extensive experience addressing issues that implicate a broad range of legal and ethical concerns. Creative, tenacious investigator committed to thoroughly understanding all sides of a controversy and treating all parties involved with dignity and respect.

Overview

years of professional experience

Work History

Assistant United States Attorney, N.D. Ohio

U.S. Department of Justice

09.2003 - Current

As most senior attorney in the Affirmative Civil Enforcement Unit, entrusted to represent the United States as plaintiff in the office's highest-profile civil cases. Achieved significant favorable outcomes in matters involving major financial institutions, federal contractors, state and municipal governments, and large healthcare organizations, including settlements of $124 million and $200 million.
Enforce federal statutes and regulations involving fraud, corruption, and civil rights protection, including the False Claims Act, Anti-Kickback Statute, Americans with Disabilities Act, Title VII, and other laws prohibiting discrimination based on race, ethnicity, gender, religion and age.
Direct teams of investigators from the FBI and various federal Inspectors General. Recognized by partner agencies for notable effectiveness at designing investigative plans and synthesizing evidence into successful prosecutions.
Determine appropriate resolution of controversies and draft documents memorializing terms, including letter agreements, formal settlement agreements, and consent decrees. Monitor compliance with settlements.

Trial Attorney, Office of Special Investigations

U.S. Deptartment of Justice

02.2000 - 08.2003

Investigated and litigated civil prosecutions against participants in World War II-era human rights abuses, including one of only two Nazi death camp guards known to reside in the United States. Overcame unique challenges posed by remoteness of alleged misconduct, lack of first-hand witnesses, and documentary evidence in foreign languages. Devised creative investigative strategies to counter defenses such as claims of mistaken identity.

Education

J.D. - Magna Cum Laude

Case Western Reserve University School of Law

Cleveland, OH

Master of Arts - Public Policy

Duke University

Durham, NC

Bachelor of Arts - Archaeology

Boston University

Boston, MA

Skills

Outstanding Legal Researcher and Writer
Deep knowledge of civil rights laws

Keen facility for analyzing and synthesizing evidence
Ability to engage productively with stakeholders from all backgrounds

AWARDS AND HONORS

Assistant Attorney General's Award for Human Rights Law Enforcement; Director's Award for Superior Performance as an Assistant US Attorney; Commendation for Distinguished Service to the Department of Justice Civil Division; Assistant Attorney General's Award for Outstanding Service to the Civil Rights Division.

Timeline