Samantha H. Bates

Samantha Bates is a skilled attorney in Maslon's Litigation Group specializing in government and internal investigations as well as complex business litigation. With extensive trial experience, Samantha leverages her deep expertise to represent both corporations and individuals in high-stakes matters, including investigations, white-collar criminal defense, and complex civil litigation. Known for her collaborative and creative approach, she consistently helps clients achieve just and effective outcomes.

Before joining Maslon, Samantha devoted 15 years to public service as a federal and state prosecutor. She most recently served as an Assistant United States Attorney in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota for six years, where she led successful investigations and prosecutions in a wide array of complex cases. These included racketeering conspiracies, civil rights violations, firearms trafficking, narcotics conspiracies, and violent crimes—most notably, her work on United States v. Derek Chauvin et al., which resulted in the conviction of four Minneapolis police officers for federal civil rights violations related to the death of George Floyd.

Samantha’s outstanding service has earned her recognition from multiple federal law enforcement agencies. In 2024, Samantha received the United States Department of Justice's prestigious David Margolis Award for Exceptional Service, the Department’s highest award for employee performance, for her contributions to the Chauvin et al case.

Prior to her work as an AUSA, Samantha prosecuted violent felonies for the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office in Minneapolis and the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office in Detroit. She gained invaluable trial experience, handling numerous felony jury trials, including criminal sexual assault and homicide cases. Throughout her career, Samantha has maintained an unwavering commitment to delivering justice and advocating for those who need it most.