Elite defense when everything is on the line.
Descalzo Law represents clients facing federal investigations, criminal prosecutions, health care fraud allegations, and professional consequences, with the judgment and trial experience high stakes cases demand.
attorneys for high stakes litigation
At Descalzo Law, we understand that facing a government investigation or criminal charges—especially in high-profile or white collar cases—is more than a legal problem. It’s a threat to everything you’ve built: your business, your reputation, and your peace of mind.
That’s why we approach every case with a powerful blend of precision, discretion, and compassion. We are strategic in the courtroom and human at the table—because we know what’s at stake isn’t just legal. It’s personal.
- White Collar Criminal Defense
- Federal Investigations & Grand Jury Representation
- Victims’ Rights & Sexual Abuse Cases
- Sanctions, OFAC, and International Law
- Complex Civil & Regulatory Litigation
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Landmark Cases & National Recognition
The Firm was built to deliver elite criminal defense tailored to professionals, executives, and healthcare providers under scrutiny. We act quickly, think ten steps ahead, and take on the burden—so you don’t have to.
Special Articles
Landmark Cases & National Recognition
Healthcare fraud investigations often involve enormous volumes of records, complicated regulatory frameworks, and allegations that can impact every aspect of a client’s personal and professional life.
One of South Florida’s Most High-Profile International Corruption Trials.
The representation involved challenging key government witnesses, analyzing complex financial evidence, and navigating a multinational investigation—demonstrating her experience handling high-stakes international white-collar trials under intense public scrutiny.
Every person accused of a crime is entitled to a meaningful defense, regardless of the allegations against them or the public attention surrounding the case.
Founding & Partner
Challenging the Government in a High-Profile International Prosecution.
The matter reflects her experience handling high-profile international prosecutions requiring strategic advocacy under intense public scrutiny.
A criminal case is only as strong as the investigation behind it. When evidence is missing, forensic opportunities are lost, or procedures are called into question, it is the responsibility of the defense to bring those issues before the jury.
Founding & Partner
Defense Counsel in Internationally Watched Haiti Assassination Trial.
The representation involved navigating a complex cross-border investigation while challenging the government’s evidence and protecting her client’s rights.
Every defendant deserves a meaningful defense, and every accusation must be proven with competent evidence—not assumption or public opinion.
Founding & Partner
Strategic Defense in International Federal Conspiracy Trial.
She challenged the government’s theory of criminal intent, analyzed complex international evidence, and emphasized the distinction between allegations and proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
Our responsibility is to determine whether those connections are supported by evidence—or by assumptions.
Founding & Partner
Pursuing Accountability After a Life-Changing Injury.
Through civil rights claims and allegations of governmental misconduct, she seeks accountability and justice while advocating for individuals and families facing devastating circumstances.
When someone suffers catastrophic injuries, the focus should be on compassion, accountability, and uncovering the facts—not rushing to conclusions
Founding & Partner
Securing Justice in a Groundbreaking Medicare Advantage Fraud Prosecution
Attorney Marissel Descalzo helped defend a former healthcare executive in a groundbreaking Medicare Advantage fraud prosecution involving a novel theory of criminal liability. By focusing on intent, motive, and the realities of the workplace, the defense demonstrated that regulatory complexity should not be mistaken for criminal conduct.
The case resulted in a full acquittal, highlighting Ms. Descalzo’s experience handling precedent-setting federal investigations and trials.
I cannot imagine a jury of working-class citizens would believe that an employee would risk prison time in exchange for a job paying below-average compensation.
Founding & Partner
Defense Counsel in International Corruption and Money Laundering Prosecution.
Attorney Marissel Descalzo represented former Venezuelan National Treasurer Claudia Díaz Guillén and her husband in a landmark international corruption prosecution. Despite the case’s complexity and intense public scrutiny, she remained steadfast in her advocacy throughout the proceedings. The representation reflects her commitment to guiding clients through high-stakes matters with resilience, professionalism, and unwavering support.
It is defined by our commitment to stand beside our clients, challenge the government’s evidence, and ensure that every person receives the vigorous representation guaranteed under our system of justice.
Founding & Partner
Legal Insight from Firm's Blog
Notable Victories
Non-Jail Sentence – Import Tax Evasion
Case No. 24-cr-20545
Notable Victories
No Charges Filed – PPP Fraud Investigation
Represented executives of a transportation/logistics company targeted in a PPP fraud case. Despite multiple subpoenas and grand jury testimony, no charges were filed. Clients did not cooperate in exchange for the declination.
Notable Victories
No Charges Filed – Cryptocurrency Company CEO
Represented a CEO investigated for misuse of PPP funds. No charges were filed, and the client did not cooperate in exchange for the declination.
Notable Victories
No Charges Filed – Fentanyl Kickback Allegations
Represented a doctor investigated for accepting sham speaker fees in exchange for prescribing fentanyl (part of the Insys scandal). The client, unlike others, was not charged and did not cooperate.
Notable Victories
No Charges Filed – Toxicology Lab Owner
Represented lab owner allegedly tied to millions in false toxicology claims. While co-conspirators received lengthy prison terms, the client was not charged and did not cooperate.
Notable Victories
Immunity – Horse Doping Case
Secured immunity for a trainer in a major horse doping case prosecuted in the Southern District of New York.
Notable Victories
No Charges – Public Corruption Allegations
Represented an elevator company and a consulting company each investigated for public corruption tied to municipal contracts. No charges filed in either case.
Notable Victories
United States v. Young, 108 F.4th 1307 (11th Cir. 2024)
Successfully vacated a million-dollar restitution award in an Anti-Kickback case. Jury acquitted client on receiving kickbacks; appellate court decision now governs restitution under the statute.