Joe Spataro joins Shumaker, bringing white-collar defense chops

Shumaker has added Joe Spataro as a Partner in its Litigation and Dispute Service Line, specifically boosting the firm’s white-collar defense and investigation capabilities.

Spataro has about 20 years of litigation experience and is a board-certified specialist in criminal trial law. He has built a successful track record of navigating complex criminal and regulatory matters.

Spataro previously served as Associate Deputy Attorney General for Criminal Justice Programs and as Cyber Fraud Enforcement with the Florida Attorney General’s Office.

“I am proud to join Shumaker’s team with an outstanding reputation for excellence in litigation and its commitment to teamwork and client service,” Spataro said. “The firm’s White Collar Defense & Investigations team is composed of highly skilled attorneys who approach every matter with integrity, strategy, and purpose. I’m excited to contribute my experience and help clients navigate complex challenges with confidence.”

Spataro previously served as an Assistant Statewide Prosecutor, where he handled organized crime and sophisticated conspiracy cases. Recognized as an authority in electronic surveillance and digital forensics, Spataro has earned national recognition as a lecturer and instructor in those disciplines. He also mentors in trial advocacy and litigation strategy.

Throughout his career, he has trained professionals for the FBI, the National Computer Forensics Institute, Cellebrite, the National Association of Attorneys General and the Florida Bar.

“Joe’s unique combination of prosecutorial experience, cybercrime knowledge, and trial acumen will be an incredible asset to our clients,” said Jeff Fabian, Shumaker Partner and Litigation & Disputes Regional Service Line Leader. “His insight into how government agencies operate will be invaluable in helping our clients navigate investigations and achieve the best possible outcomes.”

Spataro’s résumé also includes serving as Director of the 20th Statewide Grand Jury, which was convened in the wake of the tragic Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting to investigate school safety statewide. The nearly two-year investigation drew national attention, uncovering mismanagement of more than $1.5 billion in public funds meant to address safety and renovation concerns in South Florida.

Shumaker’s White Collar Defense and Investigations group counsels clients through complex criminal, regulatory and internal investigations.

Shumaker overall employs more than 300 lawyers and advisors who work together to help clients succeed.