Paulette M. Pagán, Esq.

Paulette has represented more than 1,000 individuals and corporations navigating the complexities of the criminal justice system, guiding clients through some of the most high-stakes and sensitive matters in federal and state courts across the country.

Over the course of her career, Paulette has successfully tried dozens of jury trials and secured favorable outcomes in cases ranging from violent felonies to highly sophisticated white-collar prosecutions. She has defended clients charged with murder, bribery, conspiracy, major fraud, sex offenses, wire fraud, firearm offenses, and large-scale drug trafficking. Her clients have included executives, CEOs, public officials, and individuals alleged to be leaders of international criminal organizations.

Paulette is particularly respected for her work in complex white-collar and cryptocurrency-related prosecutions. She has defended clients facing federal indictments involving multimillion-dollar fraud schemes, including representation in a case alleging over $240 million in cryptocurrency theft. In one major federal fraud jury trial, she reviewed more than 3.5 million documents and mastered intricate government contracting regulations to build a compelling defense. In another case where her client faced life imprisonment, her relentless advocacy resulted in a full acquittal on all charges.

Her practice also extends to international and cross-border matters, including extradition cases and coordination with foreign counsel. She regularly collaborates with attorneys overseas to ensure seamless representation for clients facing exposure in the United States.

Paulette is frequently sought by national media for commentary and insight and has been featured in outlets such as The Washington Post, MSNBC, Telemundo, and Bloomberg Law. She is known not only for her courtroom skill, but for her commitment to client communication and discretion, understanding the personal and professional toll that criminal allegations can carry.

A proud first-generation attorney of Puerto Rican descent, Paulette represents clients fluently in both English and Spanish, providing culturally competent and accessible representation across borders.

Before establishing her practice in Washington, D.C., Paulette served as a Public Defender in St. Louis County, Missouri, where she achieved the highest number of dismissed felony cases in a single year during her tenure. That foundation continues to shape her client-centered, trial-ready approach.

Admissions:
District of Columbia
United States District Court for the District of Columbia
Maryland
United States District Court for the District of Maryland
Virginia
United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia
Missouri
United States District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri

Federal prosecutions utilize vast resources to secure convictions. Facing this apparatus requires a defense that is unwavering and relentlessly proactive. Attorney Pagán has built a reputation on dismantling government narratives through meticulous preparation and aggressive advocacy.