Michael van der Veen has become a household name for his no-nonsense courtroom style and successful representation of President Donald Trump, securing an acquittal in the fourth presidential impeachment trial in history. Behind the headlines, however, lies a seasoned trial lawyer whose practice spans criminal defense, personal injury, and commercial litigation.
On his most recent appearance on the The Sonny Banks Show — a weekly radio show that explores the challenges faced by injured individuals involved in lawsuits — Michael discusses his decision to forego political office so he can remain fully dedicated to his clients and the work of building and leading his firm, his dual focus on personal injury and criminal defense, and the client-focused culture at van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim that makes it a standout law firm in Philadelphia.
Representing Trump and That Viral “Mike Drop” Moment
Michael has represented some of the biggest names in both Hollywood and the political arena, but perhaps none as high-profile or as polarizing as President Donald Trump. During Trump’s impeachment trial, Michael served on the defense team, navigating one of the most scrutinized legal proceedings in modern history.
Early in the podcast, Michael was asked about the viral moment that followed the trial, a heated interview with CBS News anchor Lana Zak that gained national attention. Frustrated with what he described as biased questions and misleading narratives, Michael ultimately removed his microphone and walked off the set, a clip that quickly spread online and became widely known as his “mic drop” moment.
“I was hot, thinking about them [the house managers] fabricating evidence and doctoring the documents” Michael explained to the host and fellow guests. Following the acquittal, media outlets lined up for interviews with the defense team, and at his next media stop, Michael was informed his microphone had been cut off, joking it was his first taste of cancel culture.
Commentary aside, it was moments like these that highlighted Michael’s tenacity and aggressive pursuit for justice. In the interview with Zak, Michael expressed deep concern for the narrative that hails from both sides of the political aisle: “What this country wants and what this country needs is to come together.”
So does that mean Michael will pursue a career in politics? His answer — a resounding no.
Why Michael van der Veen is Steering Clear of Politics
Although several people have approached him about running for Senate, Michael remains focused on what he finds most fulfilling: representing his neighbors and giving a voice to those in need. Whether it’s personal injury, criminal defense, or commercial litigation, his priority is helping clients navigate some of the most challenging moments of their lives. “I’m focused on building a law firm,” Michael explained. “I’m building a business and excelling in the areas of law that are most critical to people and their families.”
van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim represents clients in a variety of practice areas, including personal injury, auto accidents, criminal defense, estate planning, business litigation, and family law — and it’s only continuing to grow. “Our personal injury practice has always been strong, but it just keeps getting bigger,” Michael says, adding that the firm now has eight attorneys dedicated exclusively to personal injury cases, ensuring every client receives experienced, focused representation.
For Michael and his team, these cases are especially rewarding. “Clients come to us at some of the most difficult times in their lives. They need someone strong who knows what they’re doing, and who can get them across the goal line to achieve the results they deserve,” he explains.
But for Michael, success isn’t just measured by financial recovery. It’s also about driving meaningful change.
Driving Change Through Advocacy and Community Impact
In a devastating case that claimed the life of a young girl after police officers fired 25 rounds at a local football game, Michael’s advocacy on behalf of the victim’s family helped lead to the creation of a Citizens Advisory Board, ensuring that officers now receive ongoing training aimed at preventing tragedies like this from happening again.
Currently, Pennsylvania lawmakers are considering SB279, which would require every police department in the Commonwealth to implement simulated deadly force training. “It’s really important to have governmental entities or corporate actors change their policies and procedures or the way they conduct business so that the injury isn’t repeated,” says Michael.
Inside van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim’s Client-Centered Approach
The life of an attorney offers little downtime. As Michael explained to the host, he often has a million things on his desk — spreadsheets to comb through, phone calls and emails to answer, and lawyers ready to discuss cases (just to name a few).
Yet when a client walks in, van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim’s client-centered approach becomes the sole focus. Michael sets everything else aside to give his full attention to the client and their story.
It’s this client-first dedication that has placed Michael on the Pennsylvania Super Lawyers list for the last 20 years. “You have to find your connection with them,” he shared.
Whether meeting with a family who has faced a devastating loss or an individual facing criminal charges, Michael reassures each client that their case is in good hands. “In criminal cases, especially,” Michael says, “they need to know, ‘Hey, this is my problem now.”
He adds, “I can’t tell you how many times people have walked out of my office saying, ‘Oh my God, I can breathe again.”
Contact van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim for the Experienced and Dedicated Legal Representation You Deserve
Whether you’ve been injured in a car accident, facing arson charges, or seeking justice for your child who suffered a preventable birth injury, van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim is here to give you back your voice and pursue maximum compensation.
Call our firm at 215-486-0123 or fill out our secure, confidential contact form to schedule a free consultation with Michael or the rest of the van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim team. Serving Philadelphia County, Bucks County, Chester County, and beyond, your story matters — and van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim is here to listen.
Listen to the full interview here.
Disclaimer: This blog is intended for informational purposes only and does not establish an attorney-client relationship. It should not be considered as legal advice. For personalized legal assistance, please consult our team directly.