National AmLaw 200 firm Michael Best is pleased to announce the addition of Amanda Wait as Partner in the firm’s Antitrust & Competition practice, based in the Washington, D.C. office.
Wait is a nationally recognized leader in antitrust and competition law, with more than two decades of experience advising Fortune 500 companies, private equity firms, and innovative startups on complex merger reviews, government investigations, and high-stakes litigation. Amanda previously led the antitrust practice at a major international law firm and served as an attorney at the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), where she oversaw merger investigations and enforcement actions. She is known for securing worldwide merger control clearances for strategic mergers, acquisitions, and joint ventures, and for guiding clients through antitrust investigations before the FTC, Department of Justice (DOJ), and state attorneys general.
“We’re excited to welcome Amanda to Michael Best,” said Jason Thompson, Chair of the Michael Best Transactional Practice Group. “Amanda’s unique blend of government and private sector experience, her strategic approach to competition issues, and her ability to meld business objectives with legal realities make her a standout in the field. Her leadership and vision will be instrumental as we help clients navigate increasingly complex antitrust challenges.”
Prior to her leadership in private practice, Wait served as an attorney at the FTC, where she oversaw merger investigations and enforcement actions. She has been recognized nationally for her work in antitrust and competition law.
“Amanda’s arrival marks the latest significant step in our firm’s growth in Washington, D.C.,” said Dave Crass, Managing Partner of Michael Best’s Washington, D.C. Office. “Her deep understanding of regulatory frameworks and her proven track record in securing successful outcomes for clients will be invaluable. Amanda’s collaborative style and commitment to client service will propel our firm’s Antitrust & Competition practice and reinforce our dedication to delivering exceptional results for our clients.”
Wait is widely respected for her ability to guide senior executives and boards through complex antitrust matters, offering practical insights that help shape major business decisions. She has advised clients across a broad spectrum of industries, including healthcare, energy, life sciences, and industrials, and has played a key role in navigating significant Department of Justice challenges as trial counsel. Wait’s experience includes successfully leading clients through intricate federal and state antitrust reviews.
Beyond her legal practice, Wait is committed to professional and community leadership, serving on the Executive Committee of the University of Cincinnati Foundation Board of Trustees and founding initiatives to support students in the Department of Economics at the University of Cincinnati through scholarships, mentoring, and networking.
Wait’s addition reflects Michael Best’s ongoing commitment to expanding its capabilities to better serve the firm’s clients. She will focus on advising clients on merger clearance, government investigations, and antitrust litigation, particularly in today’s dynamic regulatory environment.