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Robert Fisher
Partner / Practice Group Leader, Government Investigations & White Collar Defense
Introduction
Rob Fisher is a Chambers USA ranked trial lawyer and former Assistant United States Attorney who represents clients facing bet-the-company internal and government investigations or charges brought by agencies such as the Department of Justice, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), and the various state attorneys general. He serves as practice group leader for the firm’s Government Investigations & White Collar Defense practice, which is a Chambers Band One practice and was recently honored as a New England Litigation Department of the Year for the second year in a row.
My focus
Rob served as an Assistant United States Attorney for almost a decade and during that time handled some of the federal district’s most complex and high-profile white-collar fraud cases. He has received numerous awards for his work as a defense attorney and a federal prosecutor including the US Department of Justice Director’s Award and was named a Massachusetts Lawyer of the Year (2022).
Rob has successfully defended corporate and individual clients facing almost all variations of federal white-collar offenses. Based upon his work as a defense attorney and prosecutor, Rob has been interviewed by Anderson Cooper for CBS’s 60 Minutes, has been featured in two Netflix documentaries, a CNN documentary, and a History Channel documentary, and is frequently quoted in numerous national publications such as the Wall Street Journal, the New York Times, the Washington Post, Newsweek, and the Boston Globe. His cases have been featured in Wall Street Journal reporter Melissa Korn’s book Unacceptable: Privilege, Deceit & The Making of The College Admissions Scandal (2020), John Vandemoer’s book Rigged Justice (2021); and WBUR’s Last Seen podcast (2018).
In fall 2022, Rob was recognized by Boston University School of Law, in honor of its 150th anniversary, as one of the 150 people, places, and events that have made an impact on the law school and the world. Rob has previously been retained as an expert witness in matters regarding the management and defense of government and regulatory investigations and was also nominated by former Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker to serve as a member of the Commonwealth’s Task Force on the Preservation of Evidence.
I utilize my experience as a former federal prosecutor and assistant attorney general to represent companies, boards of directors, and individuals in internal investigations or enforcement actions by any of the various state and federal agencies or United States Attorneys’ Offices. I’ve served as lead trial counsel in dozens of state and federal trials and successfully handled appeals before the Massachusetts Appeals Court and the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit. I have also represented FINRA in lengthy hearings before that regulator’s Office of Hearing Officers.
Government and Internal Investigations
I am a former Massachusetts Assistant Attorney General and spent nearly a decade as a federal prosecutor for the United States Attorney’s Office in Boston with much of this time as a member of the Public Corruption and Special Investigations Unit. In this role, I led dozens of grand jury investigations and handled the prosecution of a broad range of sophisticated, high-profile, white-collar federal cases involving federal program bribery, healthcare fraud, international trade violations, embezzlement, identity theft, extortion, obstruction of justice, money laundering, RICO conspiracies, and mail and wire fraud. I have conducted trainings for the FBI and other federal and foreign law enforcement agencies and traveled with the FBI to Europe while conducting training regarding bribery and corruption for European law enforcement officials.
My experience as a former prosecutor provides me a unique perspective when assisting my clients with government investigations and regulatory matters, including subpoenas by federal or state agencies, internal corporate investigations, criminal and civil enforcement proceedings, and defense of Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) cases.
Financial Services
I also help clients resolve complex securities and compliance matters, including securities fraud, stock manipulation, insider trading, conversion of investor funds, mail and wire fraud, tax fraud, bank fraud, and money laundering.
Prior to joining the firm, I served as a senior litigation counsel for FINRA. I investigated and prosecuted some of the regulatory authority’s most significant cases involving violations of federal securities laws and ethical rules. I also represented FINRA in disciplinary hearings and settlement negotiations regarding a wide range of federal securities fraud offenses. I leverage my background and understanding of the financial regulatory landscape to help my clients navigate federal security laws and industry rules and regulations.
Representative experience
- Convinced the Department of Justice to dismiss all charges against MIT Professor Gang Chen in one of America’s most prominent counterintelligence cases. The rare pretrial dismissal of this federal matter was one of the factors that led to the termination of the US government’s China Initiative. Rob has since successfully represented over a dozen world-renowned professors, academics, and researchers in China Initiative linked investigations.
- Obtained a complete defense victory through the pretrial dismissal of a high-profile, federal PPP loan fraud case charged by the Boston US Attorney’s Office.
- Successfully represented a US university in a US congressional investigation involving the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party.
- Successfully represented a large international company in a complex multi-pronged DOJ/SEC investigation. The matter was resolved with no charges or admission of wrongdoing.
- Currently representing a large medical practice in a DOJ False Claims Act investigation.
- Successfully represented an international scientific instruments company in a lengthy SEC investigation. The investigation was terminated after a successful internal investigation.
- Currently representing a Canadian company in a DOJ/EPA federal investigation.
- Represented a high-profile NCAA Division I head coach in a high-stakes investigation that resulted in no finding of wrongdoing.
- Currently representing an international medical device manufacturer, and a large medical practice, in multi-pronged DOJ/FBI/FDA investigations regarding alleged False Claims Act violations.
- Successfully represented an international public company that was the target of an SEC, COVID-19 fraud investigation. The matter was resolved with no action taken against the company.
- Successfully represented a US public company in an SEC formal investigation. The investigation was closed with the government taking no action against the company.
- Successfully represented an individual who was a “subject” of Special Counsel Robert Mueller’s Russia investigation. The matter was resolved with no charges being filed.
- Successfully represented a securities broker who was barred from FINRA. After a successful appeal to the SEC the broker’s bar was rescinded.
- Successfully represented a broker-dealer compliance chief in a FINRA investigation. The inquiry was concluded without charges, penalties, or a reprimand.
- Successfully represented the former Stanford Sailing Coach in the highly publicized “Varsity Blues” DOJ prosecution and secured a sentence of no jail time.
- Successfully represented a Taiwanese CEO facing years in prison and convinced a federal judge to grant a sentence of time served.
- Represented two former CEOs charged in the “Varsity Blues” DOJ prosecution, one of whom served no time in jail.
- Successfully assisted a US-based company fully recover funds from a Hong Kong bank that had been stolen as a result of an international cyber scam.
- Represented a Fortune 100 company in high-stakes settlement negotiations with the Department of Justice.
- Successfully represented one of the country’s largest real estate companies in an investigation by the New York State Attorney General’s Office.
- Represented multiple cryptocurrency and blockchain technology companies in internal and SEC investigations.
- Successfully handled multiple internal FCPA investigations in Europe and Asia.
- Successfully represented a US Coast Guard official in a high-profile misconduct investigation.
- Representing one of the country’s largest cannabis technology companies in a DOJ and SEC joint investigation.
- Advised a Fortune 500 company in its high-profile, cross-border investment in a Canadian marijuana company.
- Advising multiple cannabis businesses and a fantasy sports business with respect to AML and BSA compliance.
- Successfully represented a lawyer before the Massachusetts Board of Bar Overseers regarding a wire fraud investigation. The BBO declined to issue a reprimand.
- Involved in the efforts to recover $500 million of artwork stolen from the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in 1990.
- Successfully represented a global engineering company in an administrative DCAMM appeal before the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office.
Looking ahead
The federal government, state governments, and various regulators will continue to be aggressive in the areas of financial fraud, healthcare fraud, money laundering, corporate or white-collar misconduct, and public and private corruption, including the investigation of Foreign Corrupt Practices Act violations. In the current highly regulated environment, businesses and individuals should be cognizant of their compliance and due diligence responsibilities and, if and when there are investigations or violations, it is important that they receive strategic advice and counsel from lawyers that know firsthand how these agencies and regulators investigate and prosecute cases.
In the news
- Worcester Business Journal
Ascend files $5 million lawsuit against landlord of planned Devens manufacturing facility, claiming asbestos and compliance issues
Oct 17, 2024This article covers a lawsuit filed by Ascend Elements seeking $5 million in damages from the owner of a Devens building the company intended to turn into a manufacturing facility, which is the result of a months-long dispute between the two parties over the condition of the building. Providence partner and Construction & Real Estate Litigation practice leader Jeff Brenner is mentioned in the coverage for representing Ascend. The NP team also includes Boston partner and Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice leader Rob Fisher and Rochester Complex Disputes associate Sarah Tufano.
- Government Contracting Law Report
Wisconsin Bell and the False Claims Act
Oct 17, 2024Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice leader Rob Fisher of Boston, partner Adam Tarosky of Washington, DC, and associate Jarrad Kirsh of Boston and Washington, DC Complex Disputes counsel Brian Hill contributed this article, discussing a case pending before the US Supreme Court that will determine whether requests to the E-Rate program count as claims under the False Claims Act.
- Law360
Sparring with Adams, feds shadowbox the Supreme Court
Oct 7, 2024This article covering the corruption case against New York City Mayor Eric Adams, as well as the impact of recent US Supreme Court cases that center on official misconduct, includes commentary from Boston partner and Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice leader Rob Fisher. Rob discusses an apparent slowing in the flow of corruption cases being brought by the government due to recent Supreme Court case law, and how prosecutors have had to become more novel in their approaches as a result.
- Law.com/Connecticut Law Tribune
Litigation Departments of the Year, White Collar/Corporate Compliance winner: Nixon Peabody
Sep 25, 2024This article highlights NP’s second consecutive selection in the “White Collar/Corporate Compliance” category of the New England Legal Awards, and features a Q&A with Boston partner and Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice leader Rob Fisher. Rob’s comments focus on several positive results the group has secured in investigations linked to the US Department of Justice’s China Initiative.
- Bloomberg Law
Thomas Girardi’s legal drama approaches its Hollywood ending
Aug 5, 2024Boston partner and Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice leader Rob Fisher provides third-party comments in this article covering the federal criminal trial of now-disbarred lawyer Thomas Girardi on wire fraud charges. Rob discusses potential complications the prosecution could face, particularly related to the publicity surrounding this case.
- Law360
Nixed Purdue Chapter 11 plan may leave states ready for a fight
June 28, 2024This article covers a bankruptcy court’s rejection of Purdue Pharma’s Chapter 11 plan that included a liability release shielding the Sackler family from litigation. Boston partner Rob Fisher, leader of the Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice, is quoted on practical challenges that state attorneys general could face in restarting long-dormant litigation against the Sacklers.
- CNN
Gardner art heist: Stealing beauty
May 19, 2024Boston partner and Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice leader Rob Fisher is featured throughout this episode of CNN’s “How It Really Happened” discussing the infamous 1990 art heist at Boston’s Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. Rob worked on the case in his former role as an Assistant US Attorney.
- Reuters
Binance’s CEO Zhao faces sentencing over money laundering violations
This article covers the guilty plea of former Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao to money laundering charges. Boston partner Rob Fisher, leader of the Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice, discusses the surprisingly tough sentencing request by prosecutors in the former crypto exchange CEO’s case, noting that prosecutors might be trying to set an example given Zhao’s high profile.April 30, 2024 - Law360
Divisive housing law a ‘great test’ for new Massachusetts AG
March 4, 2024Boston partner and Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice leader Rob Fisher is quoted in this article, which discusses the new Massachusetts law requiring communities served by public transit to build more affordable multifamily housing, and how it presents a significant test for state Attorney General Andrea Campbell.
- Law360
Georgia Tech professor gets most China-tied fraud charges tossed
March 1, 2024This article covers a Georgia federal judge dismissing nine of 10 criminal charges against former Georgia Institute of Technology professor Gee-Kung Chang, who was accused of using his post to help bring foreign nationals into the US to covertly work for Chinese telecom firm ZTE. Judge Amy Totenberg overruled a federal magistrate in finding that federal prosecutors hadn’t sufficiently claimed that Chang actually defrauded the university. Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partners Rob Fisher and Brian Kelly are mentioned for representing Chang.
- The Boston Globe
Night watchman who buzzed in Gardner Museum thieves decades ago has died
Feb 27, 2024Boston partner Rob Fisher, leader of the Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice, is quoted in this article on the death of Richard “Rick” Abath, the guard who opened the door to two thieves in Boston’s infamous 1990 Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum art heist. Rob, who previously worked on the case as a prosecutor, discusses the impact the investigation had on Abath’s life and how he was a valuable resource for investigators while reviewing the case.
- The Boston Globe
Federal prosecutors sought records linked to suspended cannabis regulator as part of grand jury probe
Feb 1, 2024Boston partner and Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice leader Rob Fisher is quoted in this article, which discusses the grand jury investigation involving suspended Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission Chair Shannon O’Brien. Rob explains that grand jury investigations can often last months, if not years, as prosecutors gradually build a case, and that prosecutors often go to lengths to limit knowledge of the eventual target.
- The Boston Globe
Federal judge dismisses COVID-19 relief fraud charges against Marblehead man and his attorney
Nov 14, 2023This article covers the dismissal of pandemic aid fraud charges against a Massachusetts monk, Andrew Bushell, and his attorney. Boston partner and Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice leader Rob Fisher, who represented Bushell, is quoted in the article, which also refers to NP as a “powerhouse” firm. The NP team representing Bushell also includes Boston GIWC associate Scott Seitz.
- Law360
Feds drop pandemic aid charges against monk, lawyer
Nov 9, 2023This article covers a filing by federal prosecutors in Boston to drop pandemic aid fraud charges against a Massachusetts monk, Andrew Bushell, and his attorney. Boston partner and Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice leader Rob Fisher and Boston GIWC associate Scott Seitz are mentioned in the article for representing Bushell in the case.
- Law360
Intent a ‘live issue’ as NBA fraud trial set for tipoff
Oct 27, 2023Boston partner and Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice leader Rob Fisher is quoted in this article covering a case involving former NBA players who allegedly used fraudulent invoices to defraud the league’s healthcare plan. Rob explains why the case is relatively straightforward given the nature of this type of white-collar litigation.
- Law360
Four years on, unraveling the lessons of ‘Varsity Blues’
Sep 27, 2023Reflecting on the four-plus years since news of the “Varsity Blues” college admissions investigation first broke, Boston partner and Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice leader Rob Fisher is quoted in connection with the case involving his client, former Stanford sailing coach John Vandemoer, as well as the overall response from the white-collar bar at the outset in 2019.
- Law360
As ‘Varsity Blues’ winds down, attorneys recall a wild beginning
Sep 26, 2023Reflecting on the four-plus years since news of the “Varsity Blues” college admissions investigation first broke, Boston partner and Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice leader Rob Fisher is quoted in connection with the case involving his client, former Stanford sailing coach John Vandemoer, as well as the overall response from the white-collar bar at the outset in 2019.
- Fox News
University to cut ties with Chinese Confucius Institute after scrutiny on DOD grant
June 15, 2023This article covers Alfred University’s decision to close its Confucius Institute following scrutiny over a government grant it received to study advanced weaponry. Boston partner and Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice leader Rob Fisher, who represents the university, is quoted in the article with respect to the school’s decision.
- The Boston Globe
The rise and fall of Rachael Rollins
May 20, 2023This article on former Massachusetts US Attorney Rachael Rollins’s ascent and subsequent resignation quotes Boston partner and Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice leader Rob Fisher, who worked with Rollins when both were line prosecutors in the US Attorney’s Office.
- Law360
Joshua Levy named acting Massachusetts US Attorney
May 19, 2023This article on the selection of Joshua Levy as acting US Attorney for the District of Massachusetts quotes Boston partner and Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice leader Rob Fisher on the possibility of increased focus on white-collar prosecutions, financial crimes, and sophisticated white-collar matters, based on Levy’s background.
- Law360
Rollins scandal steers US Attorney’s Office to ‘uncharted waters’
May 17, 2023Boston partner and Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice leader Rob Fisher is quoted in the following article and radio report, which discuss what’s next for the Massachusetts US Attorney’s Office following the resignation of Rachael Rollins. Rob explains how the US Attorney’s Office can recover quickly and what he anticipates when Josh Levy likely becomes acting US Attorney.
- WBUR Radio
Two federal investigations accuse US Attorney Rollins of abuses of power
May 17, 2023Boston partner and Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice leader Rob Fisher is quoted in the following article and radio report, which discuss what’s next for the Massachusetts US Attorney’s Office following the resignation of Rachael Rollins. Rob explains how the US Attorney’s Office can recover quickly and what he anticipates when Josh Levy likely becomes acting US Attorney.
- History Channel
History’s greatest heists with Pierce Brosnan
May 3, 2023Boston partner and Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice leader Rob Fisher is featured on this episode of the History Channel’s “History’s Greatest Heists with Pierce Brosnan,” discussing the infamous 1990 art theft at Boston’s Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.
- Law360
NBA fraudsters face choice: Team up or point the finger
Feb 23, 2023Boston partner and Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice leader Rob Fisher provides third-party comments in this article covering a case that alleges 18 former NBA players and six additional defendants defrauded the league’s healthcare plan. Rob notes that a time-served sentencing floor can be helpful for the defense in a case with a large number of defendants, recalling a similar phenomenon in the college admissions case when his client, former Stanford sailing coach John Vandemoer, avoided prison in the case’s first sentencing.
- The Boston Globe
Russian tech tycoon heads to trial over insider trading hacking scheme
Jan 27, 2023Boston partner and Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice leader Rob Fisher provides third-party commentary in this article covering the upcoming hacking and insider trading trial of Russian businessman Vladislav Klyushin, who is accused of hacking into the servers of two vendors used by publicly traded companies to make SEC filings. Rob discusses the rarity of this kind of insider trading case and why such cases can be difficult to prove.
- Newsweek
Joe Biden’s classified documents batches—What we do know, what we don’t
Jan 13, 2023This article covering developments following the discovery of classified documents at the Penn Biden Center for Diplomacy and Global Engagement, President Biden’s University of Pennsylvania think tank, quotes Boston partner and Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice leader Rob Fisher on the seriousness of the issue.
- The Intercept
Chipped away
Dec 22, 2022In this article covering a trade secrets and export controls case against chipmaker Haoyang Yu, Boston partner Rob Fisher, leader of the firm’s Government Investigations and White-Collar Defense practice, provides third-party comments related to the downfall of the Justice Department’s China Initiative. The article mention’s Rob’s successful defense of MIT professor Gang Chen.
- Law360
‘Branded as spies,’ Chinese academics vindicated in court
Oct 25, 2022This article covering the dismissal or acquittal of several cases stemming from the DOJ’s previous “China Initiative” quotes Boston partner and Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense leader Rob Fisher. Rob is quoted with respect to client and MIT professor Gang Chen—whose case was dismissed—noting the lack of clarity from the Department of Energy whether Chen’s affiliation with Chinese government institutions needed to be reported on grant applications.
- CoStar
Trump Organization’s criminal tax fraud trial gets underway in New York
Oct 24, 2022Boston partner Rob Fisher, leader of the firm’s Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice, provides third-party commentary throughout this article, which covers the Trump Organization’s criminal tax fraud trial beginning this week in Manhattan.
- Newsweek
Fact check: Was Trump denied George Bush Sr.’s ‘exclusive control’ of docs?
Oct 6, 2022Boston partner Rob Fisher, leader of the firm’s Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice, provides third-party commentary in this article, which fact checks a claim made by former President Donald Trump comparing the FBI raid of his home in Mar-a-Lago to the mishandling of computer data under former President George H.W. Bush. Rob explains why it’s difficult to make the comparison, noting changes in how the federal government handles electronic records versus the hard copy material found in Mar-a-Lago.
- Newsweek
Will special master Dearie face Carter Page FISA conflict of interest?
Sep 20, 2022In this article, Boston partner Rob Fisher, leader of the firm’s Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice, provides third-party commentary on conflict issues that could arise in special master Raymond Dearie’s investigation into the seizure of classified documents from former President Trump’s Mar-a-Lago home, due to Dearie’s past involvement in the FISA investigation of former Trump advisor Carter Page.
- Law360
GOP transport of migrants ripped as political ‘kidnapping’
Sep 15, 2022Boston partner Rob Fisher, leader of the firm’s Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice, is quoted in this article on the recent transport of large groups of migrants by the governors of Florida and Texas to Martha’s Vineyard and outside Vice President Kamala Harris’ Washington, DC home. Rob discusses the potential legal repercussions and possible federal prosecution hurdles that may arise.
- Law360
‘Lost battles’ may help feds uphold Massachusetts mayor’s conviction
Sep 6, 2022Boston partner Rob Fisher, leader of the firm’s Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice, is quoted in this article analyzing a post-trial decision to throw out tax and fraud charges against the former mayor of Fall River, MA, and what it could mean when his corruption conviction goes before the First Circuit this week. Rob, who represented a business owner who testified against the former mayor, explains how the dismissal could ultimately help preserve the conviction.
- CBS This Morning
MIT professor who faced charges for China ties speaks out
This TV news segment on the exoneration of MIT professor Gang Chen, who faced charges under the Department of Justice’s China Initiative aimed at combatting Chinese spying, features Government Investigations & White Collar Defense practice group leader Rob Fisher on our representation of Chen and the major flaws in the government’s case that led to a full dismissal of charges.Feb 23, 2022 - Bloomberg Law
Wake up call
This roundup of notable moves and hires in the legal industry includes the selection of Boston partner Rob Fisher to lead the firm’s Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice.Feb 17, 2022 - Law360
Nixon Peabody names new white collar defense head
Boston partner Rob Fisher is profiled in this article covering his appointment as leader of the firm’s Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice. The article also quotes Litigation Department head Tony Barron related to Rob’s new role.Feb 17, 2022 - The National Law Journal
Prosecutor moves highlight brisk demand for white-collar work
This article, which covers the growing shift among former federal and state prosecutors to join private practice, includes the arrival of Long Island Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Tim Sini to NP. The article features insight from both Tim and GIWC practice group leader Rob Fisher, of Boston, on the anticipated surge of enforcement activity that could be driving this trend, and the networking among former prosecutors that often helps guide them to top law firms.Feb 2, 2022 - The Wall Street Journal
MIT professor Gang Chen says misunderstanding lay at root of US Case
This article, based on an interview with MIT professor and NP client Gang Chen, quotes Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher on the belief in Mr. Chen’s innocence and the strategy in defending him against the government’s charges.Jan 26, 2022 - Science
US prosecutors said an MIT scientist hid his China ties. Here’s why their case collapsed.
Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher is quoted extensively in this article detailing what happened in the government’s case against MIT professor and NP client Gang Chen, and why the government ultimately dropped the charges against him.Jan 25, 2022 - The Boston Globe
Federal prosecutors seek to dismiss charges against MIT professor accused of concealing ties with China
The following article covers the federal government’s motion to dismiss charges against MIT professor and NP client Gang Chen related to his China ties. The stories quote Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher, and the team defending Dr. Chen also includes Boston GIWC partner Brian Kelly and associates Scott Seitz and Brianna Nassif. In addition, GIWC associates Tom Barnico of Boston and Bobby McManigal of Washington, DC, Chicago Complex Commercial Disputes associate Henry Caldwell, and Boston GIWC paralegal Joelle MarkAnthony have done critical work on this matter.Jan 20, 2022 - The New York Times
US moves to drop case against MIT scientist accused of hiding China links
The following article covers the federal government’s motion to dismiss charges against MIT professor and NP client Gang Chen related to his China ties. The stories quote Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher, and the team defending Dr. Chen also includes Boston GIWC partner Brian Kelly and associates Scott Seitz and Brianna Nassif. In addition, GIWC associates Tom Barnico of Boston and Bobby McManigal of Washington, DC, Chicago Complex Commercial Disputes associate Henry Caldwell, and Boston GIWC paralegal Joelle MarkAnthony have done critical work on this matter.Jan 20, 2022 - Associated Press
US drops case against MIT professor accused of ties to China
The following article covers a federal judge’s dismissal of all charges against MIT professor and NP client Gang Chen related to his China ties. The stories quote Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher. The team defending Chen also includes Boston GIWC partner Brian Kelly and associates Scott Seitz and Brianna Nassif. In addition, GIWC associates Tom Barnico of Boston and Bobby McManigal of Washington, DC, Chicago Complex Commercial Disputes associate Henry Caldwell, and Boston GIWC paralegal Joelle MarkAnthony have done critical work on this matter.Jan 20, 2022 - The Washington Post
Charges dismissed against MIT professor accused of hiding research ties to China
The following article covers a federal judge’s dismissal of all charges against MIT professor and NP client Gang Chen related to his China ties. The stories quote Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher. The team defending Chen also includes Boston GIWC partner Brian Kelly and associates Scott Seitz and Brianna Nassif. In addition, GIWC associates Tom Barnico of Boston and Bobby McManigal of Washington, DC, Chicago Complex Commercial Disputes associate Henry Caldwell, and Boston GIWC paralegal Joelle MarkAnthony have done critical work on this matter.Jan 20, 2022 - Law360
MIT professor defeats China-ties case as feds reverse course
The following article covers a federal judge’s dismissal of all charges against MIT professor and NP client Gang Chen related to his China ties. The stories quote Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher. The team defending Chen also includes Boston GIWC partner Brian Kelly and associates Scott Seitz and Brianna Nassif. In addition, GIWC associates Tom Barnico of Boston and Bobby McManigal of Washington, DC, Chicago Complex Commercial Disputes associate Henry Caldwell, and Boston GIWC paralegal Joelle MarkAnthony have done critical work on this matter.Jan 20, 2022 - The Wall Street Journal
US drops case against MIT professor accused of hiding China ties
The following article covers a federal judge’s dismissal of all charges against MIT professor and NP client Gang Chen related to his China ties. The stories quote Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher. The team defending Chen also includes Boston GIWC partner Brian Kelly and associates Scott Seitz and Brianna Nassif. In addition, GIWC associates Tom Barnico of Boston and Bobby McManigal of Washington, DC, Chicago Complex Commercial Disputes associate Henry Caldwell, and Boston GIWC paralegal Joelle MarkAnthony have done critical work on this matter.Jan 20, 2022 - South China Morning Post
US to end case against Gang Chen, MIT scientist accused of hiding ties to China
The following article covers reports that federal prosecutors have recommended dropping criminal charges against MIT professor and NP client Gang Chen related to his China ties. The stories quote Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partners Brian Kelly and Rob Fisher, and the team defending Mr. Chen also includes Boston GIWC associates Scott Seitz and Brianna Nassif.Jan 15, 2022 - Reuters
U.S. prosecutors recommend dropping China charges against MIT professor: source
The following article covers reports that federal prosecutors have recommended dropping criminal charges against MIT professor and NP client Gang Chen related to his China ties. The stories quote Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partners Brian Kelly and Rob Fisher, and the team defending Mr. Chen also includes Boston GIWC associates Scott Seitz and Brianna Nassif.Jan 14, 2022 - Law360
Feds recommend dropping MIT Professor's China ties case
The following article covers reports that federal prosecutors have recommended dropping criminal charges against MIT professor and NP client Gang Chen related to his China ties. The stories quote Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partners Brian Kelly and Rob Fisher, and the team defending Mr. Chen also includes Boston GIWC associates Scott Seitz and Brianna Nassif.Jan 14, 2022 - The Washington Post
In high-profile case against MIT's Gang Chen, prosecutors seeking to drop charges
The following article covers reports that federal prosecutors have recommended dropping criminal charges against MIT professor and NP client Gang Chen related to his China ties. The stories quote Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partners Brian Kelly and Rob Fisher, and the team defending Mr. Chen also includes Boston GIWC associates Scott Seitz and Brianna Nassif.Jan 14, 2022 - The Wall Street Journal
Prosecutors recommend dropping case over china ties against MIT scientist
The following article covers reports that federal prosecutors have recommended dropping criminal charges against MIT professor and NP client Gang Chen related to his China ties. The stories quote Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partners Brian Kelly and Rob Fisher, and the team defending Mr. Chen also includes Boston GIWC associates Scott Seitz and Brianna Nassif.Jan 14, 2022 - The Wall Street Journal
The US pursued professors working with China. Cases are faltering.
This article on the Justice Department’s cases against US academics for their alleged ties to China discusses challenges related to prosecuting such cases. The story focuses on MIT professor and NP client Gang Chen, and quotes Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher.Dec 20, 2021 - Law360
MIT professor's grant fraud indictment can't be vague, judge says
This article—in the case of an MIT professor facing fraud charges for not disclosing contracts, appointments, and awards from various entities in China when applying for a Department of Energy grant—covers a judge’s assertion that prosecutors must replace sweeping, vague indictment language with specific details. The story mentions Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partners Rob Fisher and Brian Kelly for representing the professor.Sep 9, 2021 - Law360
Boston defense attorneys welcome friendlier DOJ under Rollins
Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher is quoted in this roundup of reactions to President Biden’s nomination of Suffolk County District Attorney Rachael Rollins as Massachusetts’ next U.S. Attorney.July 26, 2021 - Law360
Robinhood fine a harbinger of looming regulatory clashes
This article covering Robinhood Financial’s settlement and record-setting $70 million fine with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority quotes Boston Government Investigation & White-Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher, who notes that a settlement with one regulator does not protect a business from being a target of another enforcement authority.July 2, 2021 - Law360
Massachusetts pot bribe case shows no-jail plea deals are no lock
In covering a federal judge’ s rejection of a plea agreement with no jail time for a former mayor’ s chief of staff, this article quotes Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher on the broader topic of not taking it for granted that judges will rubber-stamp plea agreements.June 15, 2021 - Law360
COVID rules unlikely to win ex-mayor new corruption trial
This article, on former Fall River Mayor Jasiel Correia’s corruption case and a potential appeal due to COVID restrictions, quotes Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher on why it may be difficult to raise objections related to such restrictions because courts have been showing the issues can be mitigated.May 28, 2021 - Boston Business Journal
Banks are still afraid of cannabis. Here is why.
This article looking at why the majority of Massachusetts banks are still wary of cannabis-related transactions quotes Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher on the compliance and regulatory burden banks face and that cannabis transactions may not be worth the trouble.May 12, 2021 - The Boston Globe
In Rachael Rollins, a potential reformist for US. But a loss for Suffolk?
This article on Suffolk District Attorney Rachael Rollins potentially becoming the next US Attorney for the District of Massachusetts quotes Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher related to both Rollins and her possible replacement, First Assistant District Attorney Daniel Mulhern.May 8, 2021 - Sirius XM POTUS Politics
The Michael Smerconish Program
Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher joined the radio program to discuss his participation in two hit Netflix documentaries: “Operation Varsity Blues” and “This Is a Robbery.” In the interview, Rob explains how he came to work on the Gardner Museum art heist case when he was a federal prosecutor.April 20, 2021 - The Bond Buyer
FINRA enforcement on quote violations signals more actions to come
Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher is quoted in this article about client NatAlliance Securities’ settlement with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority over alleged violations of Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board Rule G-13, noting that FINRA could use the case to put others in the bond community on notice.April 15, 2021 - The Wall Street Journal
‘Operation Varsity Blues: The College Admissions Scandal’ review: Dishonor system
This review of Netflix’s new docudrama on the college admissions scandal quotes Boston Government Investigations & White Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher from the film, and mentions Rob for defending client John Vandemoer, Stanford University’s former sailing coach.March 16, 2021 - Law360
Eaze exec tells jury he helped fool banks on pot biz billing
This article, on the trial of two men accused of tricking banks into approving marijuana-related transactions for delivery service Eaze Technologies, covers Tuesday’s testimony by an Eaze executive under an immunity agreement. The story mentions Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher and associate Scott Seitz for representing the Eaze executive in the case, which could have profound consequences for the U.S. marijuana industry.March 2, 2021 - Law360
Indicted MIT professor wants feds sanctioned for press remarks
This article covers a motion to sanction the Boston U.S. Attorney for making misleading statements to the press, in violation of local rules, in the case of an MIT professor facing fraud charges for not disclosing information from various entities in China when applying for a Department of Energy grant. The story mentions Boston partners Rob Fisher and Brian Kelly, and associates Brianna Nassif and Scott Seitz, all of the Government Investigations & White Collar Defense group, for representing the MIT professor.Feb 4, 2021 - Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly
Law firm forms practice group to tackle state AG probes
This feature article on the formation of NP’s State Attorneys General team quotes Boston Government Investigations & White Collar Defense partners Bill Codinha and Rob Fisher throughout the story on the team’s work both in Massachusetts and across the country. The article also quotes Litigation chair Scott O’Connell and mentions the team’s co-leaders, Affordable Housing & Real Estate partner Erica Buckley and Government Investigations & White Collar Defense partner Travis Hill, both in New York City.Feb 4, 2021 - Bloomberg Law
Wake up call
The launch of the firm’s State Attorneys General practice team is included in this roundup of notable legal news. The team is led by New York Affordable Housing & Real Estate partner Erica Buckley; New York partner Travis Hill and Boston partners Bill Codinha and Rob Fisher, of the Government Investigations & White Collar Defense group.Feb 1, 2021 - Associated Press
Russian hack brings changes, uncertainty to US court system
This article, covering new U.S. court rules for highly sensitive documents as a result of a Russian hacking campaign, quotes Boston Government Investigations & White Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher and mentions his representation of an MIT professor facing fraud charges for not disclosing contracts, appointments, and awards from various entities in China when applying for a Department of Energy grant.Jan 31, 2021 - New York Law Journal
New York Lawyers for the Public Interest Names Anthony Karefa Rogers-Wright as Director of Environmental Justice
The launch of the firm’s State Attorneys General practice team is included in this roundup article of notable legal news. The team is led by New York Affordable Housing & Real Estate partner Erica Buckley; New York partner Travis Hill and Boston partners Bill Codinha and Rob Fisher, of the Government Investigations & White Collar Defense group.Jan 28, 2021 - Law360
MIT Profs Back Colleague Facing 'Flawed' Fraud Charges
This article covers a letter signed by more than 100 MIT faculty members in support of MIT professor Gang Chen, who faces fraud charges for not disclosing information from various entities in China when applying for a U.S. Department of Energy grant. The letter calls the investigation of Prof. Chen “deeply flawed“ with &ldquomisleading“ assertions in the charges. The article mentions Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partners Rob Fisher and Brian Kelly, and associates Scott Seitz and Brianna Nassif for representing Prof. Chen.Jan 22, 2021 - The Well News
MIT Professor Charged with Fraud in Chinese Trade Secret Theft Case
The following article, covers an MIT professor who faces fraud charges for not disclosing contracts, appointments, and awards from various entities in China when applying for a Department of Energy grant, quote Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher, who is defending the professor.Jan 15, 2021 - The Boston Globe
MIT Professor Accused of Fraudulently Getting Federal Grants-Failed to Disclose Contracts in China
The following article, covers an MIT professor who faces fraud charges for not disclosing contracts, appointments, and awards from various entities in China when applying for a Department of Energy grant, quote Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher, who is defending the professor.Jan 14, 2021 - The Wall Street Journal
U.S. Accuses MIT Professor of Hiding Extensive China Ties in Federal Grant Application
The following article, covers an MIT professor who faces fraud charges for not disclosing contracts, appointments, and awards from various entities in China when applying for a Department of Energy grant, quote Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher, who is defending the professor.Jan 14, 2021 - Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly
No Worker's Comp for Medical Marijuana, SJC Rules
This article, covering the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court’s decision that a workers’ comp insurer could not be required to reimburse for medical marijuana expenses, quotes Cannabis practice co-leader and Boston Government Investigations & White Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher on the issue of forcing an industry to get involved in something that’s illegal at the federal level.Nov 4, 2020 - Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly
SEC: Actual Notice Is Needed to Bar Broker
This article covers the work of Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher and associate Scott Seitz in getting the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) to drop a lifetime ban for their client, after convincing the SEC that further proceedings were required. The story quotes both Rob and Scott.Sep 24, 2020 - CNN
Lori Loughlin and husband, Mossimo Giannulli, to be sentenced Friday in college admissions scandal
This story, covering the upcoming sentencing of actress Lori Loughlin and husband Mossimo Giannulli in the college admissions case, quotes Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher, who represented Stanford’s former sailing coach when he pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges in the case last year. News outlets across the country have picked up CNN’s story today.Aug 21, 2020 - Boston Globe
Why was Dzhokhar Tsarnaev’s death sentence overturned?
Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher, a former federal prosecutor, is quoted in this article analyzing an appeals court’s decision to overturn convicted Boston Marathon bomber Dzhokhar Tsarnaev’s death sentence.July 31, 2020 - Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly
Promotions
This roundup of promotions in the Boston legal industry mentions two members of NP’s 2020 new partner class: Government Investigations and White-Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher and Complex Commercial Disputes partner Morgan Nighan.Feb 13, 2020 - The Deal
Movers & Shakers
This column of notable executive moves in the legal industry included a write-up on the promotion of Nixon Peabody’s 2020 new partner class: Laura Bacon, Shariff Barakat, Katie Baynes, Robert Fisher, Kimberly Harding, Brian Mahoney, Sonia Nayak, Dara Newman Histed, Morgan Nighan, Chris Porzio, Rachel Pugliese, Dana Roper, and Peter Trimarchi.Feb 4, 2020 - Reuters Legal
Career Tracker: Lawyers on the Move
This roundup of personnel moves in the legal industry highlights the 13 members of Nixon Peabody’s 2020 new partner class: Laura Bacon, Shariff Barakat, Katie Baynes, Robert Fisher, Kimberly Harding, Brian Mahoney, Sonia Nayak, Dara Newman Histed, Morgan Nighan, Chris Porzio, Rachel Pugliese, Dana Roper and Peter Trimarchi.Feb 3, 2020 - Export Compliance Daily
OFAC Getting 'Worse and Worse' at Responding to Industry Sanctions Questions, Lawyer Says
This article, which addresses sanctions enforcement by the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) and related questions from industry stakeholders, includes commentary from Boston Corporate partner Alexandra Lopez-Casero and Government Investigations and White Collar Defense partner Rob Fisher from their webinar hosted by the Massachusetts Export Council on January 30.Feb 3, 2020 - Wall Street Journal
College-Admissions Mastermind Tried to Recruit Seven Stanford Coaches, School Says
Boston Government Investigations and White Collar Defense partner-elect Rob Fisher, who represented former Stanford sailing coach John Vandemoer in a case earlier this year, is quoted in this article about Stanford’s internal review of its policies and practices related to the college admissions case.Dec 3, 2019 - ABC News
Rob Fisher talks to <em>Good Morning America</em>
Boston Government Investigations and White Collar Defense counsel Rob Fisher, who represents former Stanford sailing coach John Vandemoer, talked to Good Morning America about the latest developments in the college admissions case.Sep 14, 2019 - New York Times
Looming Over the College Admissions Case: Will Parents Like Felicity Huffman Get Jail?
This article about upcoming sentencings of several parents involved in the college admissions case quotes Boston Government Investigations & White Collar Defense counsel Robert Fisher, noting his representation of former Stanford sailing coach John Vandemoer.Sep 6, 2019 - Law360
2nd Circ.'s Seminal Rejection of FCPA Conviction Challenge
New York City partner Isabelle De Smedt (CORP), Manchester partner Mark Knights (GIWC), Boston counsel Robert Fisher (GIWC), Manchester associate Michael Strauss (CDPG) and Boston associate Scott Seitz (GIWC) authored this column about the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit’s recent decision regarding the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act’s anti-bribery provisions and what the decision means for companies needing to comply with the law.Aug 28, 2019 - The Boston Globe
Guilty verdicts may upend how City Hall works
This article quotes Boston Government Investigations and White Collar Defense counsel Rob Fisher, a former federal prosecutor, on why two Boston City Hall aides were charged with allegedly pressuring an event organizer into hiring union help.Aug 9, 2019 - CBS News
Why attorney for ex-Stanford coach who got no prison time in college scandal isn't surprised
Boston Government Investigations and White Collar Defense counsel Rob Fisher appeared on CBS This Morning to discuss a major win for his client, former Stanford sailing coach John Vandemoer.June 13, 2019 - Dagens Industri (Sweden)
USA competent: Swedbank poorly out
In this article translated from Swedish, Boston Government Investigations & White Collar Defense counsel Robert Fisher is quoted about an ongoing investigation regarding Swedbank’s contacts with Mossack Fonseca.April 5, 2019 - The Wall Street Journal
On campus, the fallout from the college admissions scandal
Boston Government Investigations & White Collar Defense counsel Rob Fisher is mentioned in this article for his representation of former Stanford sailing coach John Vandemoer who pled guilty stemming from his involvement in the college bribery scandal.March 15, 2019 - Law360
Why Silver is taking a case he won to the Supreme Court
Boston government investigations and white collar defense counsel Rob Fisher is quoted in this article about what may happen if former New York State Assembly Sheldon Silver’s recent legal victory is reviewed by the Supreme Court.July 31, 2017 - Law360
Revolving-door roundup
This article includes the arrival of Boston government investigations and white collar defense counsel Rob Fisher to Nixon Peabody.July 6, 2017 - Bloomberg Law: Big Law Business
Round up: newly appointed gcs, growing litigation teams and other moves
This article includes the arrival of Boston government investigations and white collar defense counsel Rob Fisher to Nixon Peabody.June 19, 2017 - Law360
Ex-Fed. prosecutor joins Nixon Peabody's Boston office
June 19, 2017This article focuses on the arrival of Boston government investigations and white collar defense counsel Rob Fisher to Nixon Peabody, highlighting his experience as a former federal prosecutor.
- Boston Globe
Evidence in Gardner Museum thefts that might bear DNA is missing
June 12, 2017Boston government investigations and white collar defense counsel Robert Fisher is quoted in this article discussing how modern-day forensic analysis could be the key in solving the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum art theft that took place 27 years ago.
Admitted to practice
Massachusetts
Education
Boston University School of Law, J.D.
Northeastern University, B.S., magna cum laude, University Honors Program
Professional activities
- Board of Directors, South Boston Neighborhood House
- Advisor to Asian Americans Advancing Justice
- Founder of a national federal campaign Super PAC
Recognition
- Recognized for exceptional standing in the legal community in Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business 2024 for Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations (Massachusetts); also recognized in 2023
- Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly Lawyer of the Year (2022)
- Selected, through a peer-review survey, for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® 2025 in the fields of Criminal Defense: General Practice and Criminal Defense: White-Collar; listed in Best Lawyers since 2023
- Recommended in The Legal 500 United States 2024 editorial for Corporate investigations and white-collar criminal defense: advice to individuals
- Boston Magazine Top Lawyers, Criminal Defense-White Collar, 2021 and 2022
- Department of Justice Director’s Award, Washington DC, Superior Performance as an Assistant U.S. Attorney, 2016
- DOJ/OCDETF National Leadership Conference, Washington DC, Outstanding Performance Award, 2009
- Massachusetts Attorney General, Attorney General James Shannon Award for Excellence, 2006
Insights And Happenings
View AllProfessionals in the Practice Area
View AllHannah Bornstein
Partner / Deputy Practice Group Leader, Government Investigations & White Collar Defense- Boston
- Office:+1 617.345.1217
- hbornstein@nixonpeabody.com
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