Michael Anderson

Michael Anderson is a member of Smith Anderson’s Business Litigation practice group, bringing extensive experience in complex civil litigation and government enforcement matters. A long-tenured Assistant U.S. Attorney with the United States Department of Justice, Michael served as Chief of the Civil Division in the Eastern District of North Carolina, where he oversaw the investigation and litigation of a wide range of civil matters, including False Claims Act cases, Controlled Substances Act enforcement, asset forfeiture, debt collection, employment discrimination, civil rights, tort, bankruptcy, and real property disputes.  His work involved some of the Department’s most significant civil priorities across many heavily regulated industries—including healthcare, opioids and pharmaceuticals, life sciences, financial services, cybersecurity, and government contracting—and spanned numerous federal districts.  In addition to his leadership role, he personally tried eight federal cases and argued four federal appeals.

Before his public service, Michael spent several years in private practice in Washington, D.C., handling complex litigation matters, before returning to his home state of North Carolina.

The years Michael spent leading the Federal Government’s affirmative civil practice in the Eastern District of North Carolina give him a deep understanding of the Government’s civil enforcement apparatus in key economic markets. His extensive trial and appellate experience—spanning both government and private practice—gives him unique insight into regulatory scrutiny and commercial disputes. All of that experience makes him a trusted advocate for clients in internal and government investigations and high-stakes litigation.

Outside of his practice, Michael enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife and two children. An avid adventurer, he can often be found hiking, kayaking or rock climbing. He also stays active in the community, coaching youth soccer and participating in leadership programs like Y Guides.

Clerkships

• Law Clerk to the Honorable James C. Dever, III, U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina

Education

• Duke University School of Law, J.D., magna cum laude, 2011
  • Executive Editor, Duke Law Journal
  • Research Assistant
  • Extern, Wake County District Attorney’s Office
• Duke University, B.A., magna cum laude, 2008

Bar & Court Admissions

• Tenth Judicial District Bar Association
• Evaluator, United States Department of Justice Evaluation and Review Staff (2021-2025)
• Local Civil Rules Committee, Eastern District of North Carolina (2022-2025)