William T. Hassler is a partner with the Washington office of Steptoe & Johnson LLP, where he is a member of the Litigation Department. His practice has encompassed a broad range of criminal and civil cases, including numerous matters resolved by trial in both state and federal courts. Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Hassler served as a prosecutor for the Office of Independent Counsel investigating the Iran/Contra affair, and in the Environmental Crimes Section of the US Department of Justice. He is a former Special Assistant to the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Civil Litigation
Mr. Hassler's practice has included a large variety of civil disputes, including Commerce Clause issues, ERISA claims, and numerous environmental coverage matters. He has addressed civil claims arising out of alleged corporate misconduct, including the defense of Tyco's former general counsel, and has represented insurers in numerous coverage disputes involving environmental liabilities, September 11 claims, and other types of coverage. His experience includes defense of claims by national manufacturing companies, chemical companies, and petroleum products companies.
White-Collar Criminal Defense
Mr. Hassler has represented numerous companies and individuals subject to criminal investigation. He has handled cases involving alleged corporate misconduct, complex environmental matters, charges of healthcare fraud, the regulation of medical devices, and the representation of witnesses subject to investigation by Congressional committees.
Education
Yale Law School, J.D., 1980
University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, B.A., 1977
Judicial Clerkships
Hon. Robert R. Merhige, Jr., US District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, 1981-1982
Bar & Court Admissions
District of Columbia