Ogden_David

David W. Ogden

Retired Partner

David Ogden, who retired from WilmerHale in 2025, is a nationally respected litigator whose career spanned more than thirty years in both private practice and senior government roles. At the firm, he advised clients across a wide range of regulated industries and handled complex civil litigation, enforcement matters, and significant appellate work. His practice also included matters involving constitutional, administrative, and international law, reflecting the breadth of issues he navigated throughout his career.

Before returning to private practice, Mr. Ogden held several key leadership positions in the federal government. He served as Deputy Attorney General of the United States, overseeing the operations of the Department of Justice, and earlier led the Civil Division as Assistant Attorney General. His government service also included senior roles with the Attorney General’s office and the Department of Defense, where he was involved in major national litigation, enforcement matters, and policy initiatives.

Throughout his career, Mr. Ogden was widely recognized for his strategic judgment, practical approach, and steady leadership. Leading legal publications repeatedly ranked him among Washington’s top litigators, and clients and colleagues alike praised his ability to manage complex disputes with clarity and insight. His professional contributions extended beyond practice into public service and advisory roles, reflecting his long-standing commitment to the legal profession.

Credentials

  • Education

    • JD, Harvard Law School, 1981

      magna cum laude Editor, Harvard Law Review
    • BA, University of Pennsylvania, 1976

      summa cum laude Phi Beta Kappa

Credentials

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