Michael WheatleyMichaelWheatley
Of Counsel, Investigation & White Collar Defense
Michael Wheatley is of counsel in the Investigations & White Collar Defense practice at Paul Hastings and is based in the firm’s Washington, D.C. office. Michael’s practice focuses primarily on representing companies and individuals in litigation and regulatory matters involving the federal securities laws. Michael has represented and advised dozens of issuers, investment advisers, broker-dealers and individuals in DOJ, SEC and FINRA investigations and enforcement matters and in litigation in state and federal courts and administrative forums. Michael is a go-to resource for clients facing securities-related compliance and enforcement issues, including broker-dealers, investment advisers, insider trading and handling of material, nonpublic information. Previously, Michael served for more than five years as in-house counsel at large financial services firms. He served as vice president and lead regulatory counsel for Lincoln Financial Group and chief counsel of its wholesale broker-dealer business, Lincoln Financial Distributors. He also served as litigation counsel at Towers Watson & Co. (now known as Willis Towers Watson), where he managed a broad portfolio of federal, state and international litigation, including litigation involving its investment consulting business.
Regularly represents public companies and individuals in responding to FINRA Surveillance and Market Intelligence inquiries focused on detection of insider trading activity.
Obtained closing letter for real estate-focused investment adviser in SEC enforcement investigation.
Member
Securities Docket Advisory Board (2026)
Listed on the D.C. Bar’s Pro Bono Honor Roll
- “What You Need to Know About Cybersecurity Panel,” FMA 2024 Annual Securities Compliance SeminarApril 2024