Paul L. Knight

As Of Counsel in Sanford Heisler Sharp McKnight, LLP's Washington, D.C., office, Paul Knight brings a wealth of experience to his practice, which primarily focuses on professional liability issues and litigation. His career in law spans several decades and includes significant contributions to both public service and private practice.

Before joining Sanford Heisler Sharp McKnight, Mr. Knight dedicated 13 years to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. During his time there, he held the esteemed position of chief of the Federal Special Prosecutions Section, which comprises the office's senior prosecutors. His exemplary service was recognized with the Harold Sullivan Award in Law and Society and the Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys Director’s Award for Superior Performance. Additionally, his legal acumen and professional integrity have earned him an AV Preeminent* peer-review rating through Martindale-Hubbell.

Having received a J.D. from the University of California Law San Francisco, Mr. Knight completed the E. Barrett Prettyman Fellowship at Georgetown Law and received his B.A. from the University of California, Berkeley. After his service at the U.S. Attorney’s Office, he transitioned to private practice, where he spent 35 years primarily defending corporate executives in white collar prosecutions. He also provided ethics and strategic advice to attorneys and law firms. His experience is frequently sought after, and he has served as an expert witness in multiple litigations.

Mr. Knight's commitment to legal education is evident in his roles as an instructor at various law schools, continuing legal education courses and seminars both in the U.S. and internationally. An active member of The District of Columbia Bar since 1975, he has also contributed to the legal community through his service on its Board on Professional Responsibility for 12 years, where he served as a board member and Hearing Committee chair.

*AV®, AV Preeminent®, Martindale-Hubbell Distinguished and Martindale-Hubbell Notable are certification marks used under license in accordance with the Martindale-Hubbell certification procedures, standards and policies. Martindale-Hubbell® is the facilitator of a peer-review rating process. Ratings reflect the anonymous opinions of members of the bar and the judiciary. Martindale-Hubbell® Peer Review Ratings™ fall into two categories – legal ability and general ethical standards.