Leadership at Forta Law
Forta Law is guided by experienced trial lawyers who believe leadership in serious matters requires judgment, preparation, and accountability. Every case is partner-led and carefully staffed. Rather than relying on a fixed structure, we assemble the right team for the needs of each matter — drawing on trusted colleagues and subject-matter experts when appropriate. The result is focused, strategic representation built specifically for the client and the case.
Lillian Chu
Trusted Counsel in High Stakes Matters.
Lillian Chu is a seasoned trial attorney who defends individuals and corporations at all stages of trial and appeal in criminal and civil matters, including federal and state prosecutions, government investigations, administrative proceedings, internal investigations, and related civil litigation. Lillian brings to every case a rare combination of courtroom experience and investigative depth — earned over nearly two decades at the highest levels of federal criminal practice.
Lillian’s cases have spanned the full spectrum of complex criminal and civil exposure, including healthcare fraud, insider trading, embezzlement, kickbacks, bank fraud, mail and wire fraud, tax evasion, securities violations, money laundering, public corruption, domestic terrorism, and drug trafficking conspiracies.
Prior to founding Forta Law, Lillian was a partner at a Los Angeles-based white collar litigation boutique, where she handled complex federal and state criminal defense matters and investigations. Before that, Lillian served for more than six years as a Deputy Federal Public Defender in the Federal Public Defender's Office for the Central District of California — one of the most demanding criminal defense positions in the country. There, she represented defendants in federal criminal cases and first-chaired trials in both the Central District of California and the District of Columbia. She won several dispositive motions resulting in dismissed charges and successfully obtained diversion for numerous clients, both pretrial and post-guilty plea.
For nearly a decade before joining the Federal Public Defender's Office, Lillian represented individuals and corporations at global and national law firms in white collar criminal matters and complex civil litigation, and successfully managed several high-stakes internal investigations involving significant criminal exposure for companies and their employees.
Outside the courtroom, Lillian is deeply committed to her community. She serves as a member of the Loyola Law School Board of Governors and has served for over a decade on the Board of Directors of APAIT, an organization providing HIV/AIDS, homelessness, mental health, and addiction social services throughout Los Angeles and Orange County. Lillian also currently serves as a commissioner on the Commission for Judicial Nominees Evaluation for the California State Bar.
HONORS AND AWARDS:
Super Lawyers, White Collar Crimes (2026)
Super Lawyers, Rising Star (2018, 2019)
EDUCATION:
Loyola Law School, J.D.
Order of the Coif
Loyola Law Review
University of California, Los Angeles, B.A.
EMAIL LILLIAN
lillian@fortalaw.com
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Briefed, argued, and won a new trial motion reversing a jury conviction on 34 felony fraud counts on behalf of a former bank executive in Orange County Superior Court.
Obtained dismissal of all charges after pretrial diversion for an individual in a federal bank fraud prosecution.
Obtained a 9-level downward variance on the federal sentencing guidelines range for a CEO in a complex federal kickback and money laundering case.
Negotiated a single misdemeanor plea for a sales executive originally charged with multiple felony counts arising out of an alleged mail fraud conspiracy with tens of millions of dollars of loss.
Successfully represented a former CEO in a multi-count federal felony tax evasion prosecution and obtained a misdemeanor plea and a sentence of one year of probation.
Obtained dismissal of all charges after a civil compromise agreement for a university professor in a state criminal felony prosecution for OSHA violations.
Successfully represented an individual charged in a federal criminal fraud prosecution, obtaining a time-served sentence and immediate release to his family.
Successfully represented a hospital in a DOJ and OIG investigation for potential violations of the federal Anti-Kickback Statute, resulting in no charges being filed.
Obtained a favorable pre-indictment resolution for a doctor in a federal investigation for healthcare fraud and illegal prescription drug sales.
Obtained a favorable pre-arraignment resolution for an individual in an OCDA investigation for real estate fraud–related charges.
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Won a key suppression motion in the Central District of California resulting in dismissal of all charges in a federal drug and gun case for an individual that was facing decades in custody after being found to be a career offender.
Won a pretrial motion to dismiss an indictment for illegal reentry, resulting in the dismissal of the entire case in federal court.
Obtained dismissal of all charges in a federal drug and gun case where the individual was facing a 15-year mandatory minimum and over 20 years under the sentencing guidelines after successful pretrial litigation of suppression issues.
Made a successful pitch for admission to the Central District of California’s CASA program (post-guilty plea diversion) in an international drug trafficking case involving hundreds of kilos of narcotics.
Made a successful pitch for admission to the Central District of California’s CASA program (post guilty plea diversion) in a local drug trafficking conspiracy despite a prior felony conviction.
Made a successful pitch for admission to the Central District of California’s CASA program (post guilty plea diversion) for a postal worker in a felony mail theft prosecution.
Successfully represented an individual in a federal jury trial in a firearms case that resulted in acquittal of the most serious charge and a six-month term of imprisonment at sentencing.
Obtained a sentence of one year and one day for an individual charged in drug trafficking conspiracy and facing over 20 years in custody.
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Successfully represented an individual in a federal civil rights trial that resulted in a settlement for a life changing sum offered during jury deliberations.
Successfully represented an insurance company in multiple concurrent and related investigations and civil actions to establish fraudulent conduct by a network of substance abuse treatment facilities, marketing companies, and insurance brokers through discovery and pretrial litigation that set the groundwork for a substantial trial verdict years later.
Successfully represented an insurance company in multiple complex civil RICO cases against a network of healthcare providers.
Successfully represented a global telecom and media conglomerate in post-judgment efforts, including coordination with overseas counsel on actions in multiple foreign jurisdictions and victorious motions to amend the judgment in related state and federal actions.
Successfully represented a celebrity plaintiff in an action against a fraudulent investment company, which resulted in a substantial recovery of invested funds.
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Represented an entertainment company in a confidential internal investigation into financial misconduct, including preparation of reports and recommendations, witness interviews, and collection, preparation, and forensic analysis of documents.
Represented a foreign entertainment and media marketing company in a confidential internal investigation into a California-based subsidiary into allegations of financial misconduct.
Represented a foreign company in a confidential internal investigation into potential FCPA violations by a subsidiary, including coordination of overseas investigators and counsel to collect intelligence, analyze documents and witness interviews, and prepare reports.
Represented a medical device manufacturer in an FDA investigation into potential false statements related to product efficacy.
Represented a hospital in an internal investigation of alleged kickback payments made to surgeons.
Lillian’s Representative Matters
Jennifer Williams
Strategic Advocate in Complex Litigation.
Described by Chambers as “smart, capable,” a “great lawyer,” who “brings a real calm to a case,” Jennifer helps clients navigate the most sensitive government investigations, high-stakes prosecutions, and complex litigation.
A two-time federal judicial clerk, Jennifer turned down offers from the biggest and most distinguished law firms to enter the prestigious Department of Justice Honor’s Program, serving as a federal prosecutor in the Central District of California for eight years. During her tenure, Jennifer investigated and prosecuted a wide range of federal crimes in the Public Corruption and Civil Rights Section and in the Organized Crime and Narcotics Section. She represented the United States in numerous felony jury trials, including a trial involving a $20 million Medicare fraud and drug diversion scheme; a racketeering prosecution targeting a violent criminal enterprise; and a civil rights case involving charges against law enforcement officers for police brutality and obstruction of justice. As a Deputy Chief, she supervised a team of prosecutors while carrying a full caseload involving wiretap investigations into drug trafficking, money laundering, and firearm offenses. She was called on to lead and train federal agents and officers, domestically and overseas, in investigation, search, and arrest procedures.
Prior to co-founding Forta Law, Jennifer was a partner at an elite boutique litigation firm focusing on federal criminal defense, civil litigation, and appeals. She has represented individuals, businesses, and entities in a wide array of criminal and regulatory matters, including securities and investment fraud, public corruption, healthcare fraud, mail and wire fraud, tax fraud, money laundering, export control violations, false statements, and identity theft.
Jennifer brings an unshakable work ethic, plainspoken clarity, and earned credibility to every matter. She’s been recognized by judges for her integrity. Clients value her steadiness under pressure. And opponents learn quickly that underlying her courteous demeanor is a passionate, formidable litigator.
Jennifer is committed to public service and serves on the federal Criminal Justice Act panel for indigent defendants and on the United States District Court’s Standing Committee on Attorney Discipline.
HONORS AND AFFILIATIONS:
Chambers, Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations (2025)
Super Lawyers, White Collar Crime (2021-2026), Rising Star (2018-2020)
Women’s White Collar Defense Association
United States Attorneys Director’s Award (2015)
International Association of Financial Crimes Task Force of the Year (2015)
Victim Witness Assistance Award (2012)
CLERKSHIPS:
Hon. R. Guy Cole, U.S. Court of Appeals, Sixth Circuit
Hon. Algenon L. Marbley, U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio
EDUCATION:
The Ohio State University, J.D.
Summa cum laude
Ohio State Journal of Criminal Law, Editor-in-Chief
Otterbein University, B.S.
Summa cum laude
EMAIL JENNIFER
jennifer@fortalaw.com
Jennifer’s Representative Matters
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Represented physician-client in federal drug misbranding and customs fraud trial, securing acquittal of all 24 charges, including strict liability offenses.
Represented attorney-client charged with kickbacks and illegal referrals, securing complete dismissal of all charges.
Represented national bank employee against federal money laundering and fraud charges; convinced prosecution of actual innocence, leading to dismissal with prejudice.
Briefed, argued, and prevailed before the Ninth Circuit in unanimous published opinion, winning complete reversal of client’s fraud convictions due to constitutionally defective jury selection.
Represented from district court proceedings through certiorari to the U.S. Supreme Court grand jury witness raising heavily litigated privilege issues.
Represented government entity in federal investigation into alleged Clean Water Act violations at wastewater treatment plant, leading to non-prosecution agreement.
Represented high-level executive in corporate fraud investigation by FBI and DOJ; presentation to prosecution and investigative team resulted in no charges filed against client.
Represented real estate development company and executive in fraud investigation by FBI and DOJ; presentation to prosecution and investigative team resulted in no charges filed against client.
Represented high-profile art dealer in criminal prosecution for bankruptcy fraud; obtained sentence of 80% reduction of government recommendation.
Represented owner of rehab facility in federal investigation of illegal kickbacks, resulting in no charges filed against client.
Represented public official in corruption prosecution; secured probation sentence.
Served as pool counsel for national health care plan in DOJ investigation into potential billing misconduct.
Represented fast-food chain in prosecution of violations of state environmental laws, negotiating nominal fine and probation.
Represented high-level academic in connection with federal public corruption prosecution.
Represented school district in SEC enforcement action in connection to bond issuance, negotiating favorable settlement terms for client.
Represented investment-advisor in SEC enforcement action, negotiating favorable settlement terms for client.
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Obtained complete dismissal after damaging cross-examination of main government trial witness in a state felony extortion prosecution.
Represented client in federal prescription drug distribution prosecution, successfully obtaining rare diversion agreement, resulting in dismissal of all charges.
Obtained rare federal writ of coram nobis, vacating client’s sentence paving way for lawful immigration status.
Represented veteran-client in state assault prosecution, obtaining judicial diversion resulting in dismissal of charges.
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Represented executive in a multiparty RICO and breach of contract action alleging violations of U.S. export control laws leading to successful motion to compel arbitration between third parties and stay of the litigation for client.
Represented real estate development company and executive in multiple civil actions for purported fraudulent conduct, negotiating nominal settlements.
Represented high-profile victim of unauthorized bank transfers in negligence action against bank, successfully recovering all funds and attorney’s fees.
Represented physician in false claims act lawsuit, securing complete dismissal of case in favor of client.
Served as pool counsel in high-profile celebrity defamation lawsuit.
Represented family in defense of I-864 action, negotiating favorable settlement.
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Represented nonprofit entity in confidential internal investigation into workplace violence by non-employee.
Represented high-level executive in confidential internal investigation into allegations of corporate fraud.
Represented pool of employees of multinational energy company in confidential investigation into potential violations of federal environmental laws.
Represented pool of employees of municipal entity in confidential investigation into potential violations of federal environmental laws.
Samuel Cross
Decisive Advocate at Trial.
A trial lawyer and meticulous legal writer, Sam has won acquittals, dismissals, and case-ending suppression rulings in the most serious federal cases — and brings the same relentless preparation to complex civil and regulatory matters.
Sam’s advocacy has produced decisive results in some of the most serious cases brought in federal court. He has tried a first-degree murder charge to acquittal, and forced a mid-trial dismissal of all charges, with prejudice, in another case after exposing the government's failure to disclose evidence. He has also ended prosecutions outright with suppression motions that left the government nothing to try. Over a decade in the courtroom, Sam has taken cases to verdict in state and federal court and represented hundreds of people in federal criminal matters.
Sam's cases have spanned the full range of high-stakes federal exposure, including wire fraud, government-benefits and pandemic-relief fraud, identity theft, and other financial and white-collar charges, as well as drug-trafficking, firearms, immigration, and violent-crime prosecutions. He defended Thomas Girardi at a three-week federal wire-fraud trial, and has handled hundreds of federal sentencings, with a particular focus on the sentencing-credit issues that can mean years of a client's life. He served as a trial supervisor at one of the nation's busiest federal defender offices, overseeing and mentoring other trial attorneys.
Sam brings that same trial-tested preparation to the firm's civil and regulatory work — complex civil litigation for plaintiffs and defendants, professional licensing and regulatory proceedings, and public-corruption and government investigations — approaching every matter, from the first filing, as one that may be tried.
A California native who lives in Long Beach, Sam came to law after an earlier life in letters. He earned graduate degrees in English literature at Yale and taught college writing before turning to the courtroom. That ear for language shapes every brief he writes. He has spent his career representing people facing the most serious consequences the system can impose, and outside his own cases he mentors younger trial lawyers and helps other litigators sharpen their craft. At Forta Law, clients facing the highest stakes get a lawyer who treats their case as if everything depends on it — because it does.
EDUCATION:
Stanford Law School, J.D.
Yale University, M.Phil. and M.A., English Literature
Pomona College, B.A., English
Summa cum laude
CLERKSHIP:
Hon. Sara L. Darrow, U.S. District Court, Central District of Illinois
BAR ADMISSIONS:
California · Iowa · Missouri
COURTS:
U.S. District Courts: Central District of California; Northern & Southern Districts of Iowa
U.S. Courts of Appeals: Ninth Circuit; Eighth Circuit
EMAIL SAM
sam@fortalaw.com
Sam’s Representative Matters
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Tried a complex three-week federal wire-fraud case involving alleged theft of millions in client trust funds.
Obtained a significantly below-guideline sentence for a client in a multimillion-dollar wire-fraud and elder-fraud prosecution.
Secured a CASA diversionary disposition in a $1.5 million fraud case after the government initially refused diversion.
Persuaded the government to allow diversion for a romance-scam victim coerced into furthering a wire-fraud scheme; the client completed the CASA program successfully.
Won a probationary sentence for a client convicted at trial in a securities and stock-tip fraud case, and later obtained early termination of probation.
Obtained a downward variance, built on extensive mitigation, for a client charged in a pandemic-relief unemployment-fraud prosecution.
Won a substantial downward variance for a client where the government refused to dismiss an aggravated-identity-theft count.
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Tried a first-degree murder charge to acquittal in a federal prison-homicide case.
Forced a mid-trial dismissal of all charges, with prejudice, after exposing the government's failure to disclose evidence.
Won a suppression motion in the Central District of California that led to dismissal of all charges in a federal firearms case.
Won a case-dispositive suppression motion based on an unlawful home search, ending a federal prosecution.
Developed and litigated the dispositive § 1326(d) challenge in an illegal-reentry case; denied at the trial court, it won reversal and the client's release on appeal, entirely on the arguments made below.
Obtained a significant downward variance to the mandatory minimum for a client in a repeat methamphetamine-and-firearms case.
Resolved a federal bank-robbery case through pretrial diversion after competency and mental-health litigation; the client completed diversion successfully.