Mary Allen
Who is Alice Fisher?
Alice Fisher is a prominent American lawyer who has served in several high-ranking positions in the legal field. She is known for her expertise in national security law and has been involved in several high-profile cases throughout her career. Fisher is also recognized for her leadership skills and has been praised for her ability to manage complex legal matters.
Early Life and Education
Alice Fisher was born and raised in Massachusetts. She earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Virginia and went on to attend law school at the Villanova University School of Law. After completing her legal education, Fisher began her career as a law clerk for a federal judge in Philadelphia.
Fisher’s Legal Career
Following her clerkship, Fisher joined the law firm Latham & Watkins, where she specialized in white-collar criminal defense. She quickly rose through the ranks and became a partner at the firm. During her time at Latham & Watkins, Fisher represented clients in a variety of cases, including securities fraud, antitrust violations, and environmental crimes.
Government Positions
In 2001, Fisher was appointed as the Deputy Assistant Attorney General in the Criminal Division of the United States Department of Justice (DOJ). In this role, she oversaw several high-profile cases, including the Enron investigation. Fisher also served as the Chief of Staff for the DOJ’s Criminal Division.
Appointment as Assistant AG
In 2005, Fisher was nominated by President George W. Bush to serve as the Assistant Attorney General for the Criminal Division. She was confirmed by the Senate and became the first woman to hold this position. As Assistant AG, Fisher oversaw the DOJ’s efforts to combat terrorism, cybercrime, and other national security threats.
Fisher’s Work in National Security
Throughout her career, Fisher has been recognized for her expertise in national security law. She has played a key role in shaping the legal framework for the government’s use of surveillance and other counterterrorism measures. Fisher has also been involved in several high-profile cases related to national security, including the prosecution of Zacarias Moussaoui, the only person convicted in the United States in connection with the 9/11 attacks.
Fisher’s Role in Trump-Russia Investigation
In 2017, Fisher was considered for the position of FBI Director following the firing of James Comey by President Donald Trump. However, Fisher withdrew from consideration due to potential conflicts of interest related to her work at a law firm that represented the Trump Organization. Fisher was also involved in the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election, as she was a member of the team that interviewed Michael Flynn, Trump’s former National Security Advisor.
Controversies and Criticisms
Fisher has faced criticism from some who believe that she was too aggressive in her prosecution of national security cases. Others have criticized her for her involvement in the Trump-Russia investigation, claiming that she was too close to the administration and therefore biased in her approach. Fisher has also been criticized for her work representing corporations accused of wrongdoing.
Fisher’s Departure from DOJ
Fisher left the DOJ in 2008 and returned to private practice. In 2017, she briefly served as a partner at the law firm Latham & Watkins before leaving to start her own firm, Latham & Watkins. Fisher has continued to work on high-profile cases and has been recognized for her expertise in national security law.
Current Professional Pursuits
Fisher currently serves as the Managing Partner of Latham & Watkins. She also serves on the board of directors for several organizations, including the American Bar Association’s Standing Committee on Law and National Security.
Fisher’s Legacy in National Security Law
Alice Fisher has made a significant impact on the US legal system, particularly in the area of national security law. She has played a key role in shaping the legal framework for the government’s use of surveillance and other counterterrorism measures. Fisher’s work has also helped to establish important precedents in the prosecution of national security cases.
Conclusion: Alice Fisher’s Impact on US Legal System
Alice Fisher is a highly respected lawyer who has made significant contributions to the US legal system. Her expertise in national security law has been invaluable in the fight against terrorism and other national security threats. Fisher’s legacy will continue to influence the legal profession for years to come.