PLG is pleased to welcome Michael Mendelson as partner in the firm’s Government Contracts, International Trade, and Corporate practice groups in our Washington, DC office.
A seasoned general counsel and board secretary, Michael brings more than two decades of experience advising multinational corporations, startups, and high-growth ventures across the technology, aerospace, defense, telecommunications, satellite, media, information technology, management consulting, and manufacturing sectors. Michael applies a grounded, business-first approach on behalf of his clients, honed through prior executive roles in his career.
Known for his pragmatic counsel on complex transactions, Michael’s work spans M&A, cross-border deals, early-stage financing, export controls, and strategic commercial contracting. He is also a recognized authority on government contracting, national security compliance, and international legal frameworks.
Beyond his legal work, he’s been a voice in the commercial space industry, a contributor to international conferences, and a passionate advocate for public service, including volunteering with the Red Cross post-9/11 and his Masonic lodge’s local charitable foundation. Prior to his legal career, Michael worked as a foreign and defense policy analyst and in international business development sourcing opportunities in the Former Soviet Union.
Prior to joining PLG, Michael was a partner with Outside GC, LLP, served as General Counsel at Smiths Detection, Inc., and Assistant General Counsel for Intelsat Corporation. Michael also served as a senior associate for Jones Day. He received his J.D. from Boston College Law School, M.A.L.D. from The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, and graduated cum laude from Tufts University with his B.S.M.E.
