Michael Atleson

Of Counsel
 
Washington, DC
About

Michael Atleson has extensive experience in regulation, policy, enforcement, and management, with a focus on artificial intelligence (AI), advertising, and privacy.

He spent close to 20 years in the Federal Trade Commission's Bureau of Consumer Protection, where he served several roles including Assistant Director for Regional Operations, Counsel to the Director, and most recently as Senior Staff Attorney in the Division of Advertising Practices.

During his time as Senior Staff Attorney, Michael managed numerous and novel enforcement matters related to AI and consumer reviews, and he engaged frequently with foreign, federal, and state agencies, as well as industry groups, academics, consumer organizations, and media representatives. He co-led the development of the Commission's groundbreaking Rule on the Use of Consumer Reviews and Testimonials. Further, he authored two highly regarded reports to Congress on automated technology, an award-winning and oft-cited series of AI-related blog posts, and a variety of plain-language business guidance.

Michael is a recognized thought leader and brings a well-rounded perspective shaped by diverse roles in the private and public spheres.

Areas of FocusArtificial Intelligence and Data AnalyticsAdvertising, Marketing and PromotionsLitigation, Arbitration and InvestigationsRegulatory and Government AffairsTechnology
Bar AdmissionsNew YorkDistrict of Columbia

AWARDS

Education

  • J.D., New York University School of Law
    Book Review Editor, NYU Review of Law and Social Change 

  • B.A., Wesleyan University

Publications

Seminars

  • Speaker, "The Enforcement Era: What the FTC's Consumer Review Rule Means for Your Brand," AmpUp 2026, May 13, 2026
  • Speaker, "AI Compliance: Navigating Regulatory Fragmentation and Judicial Risk," Compliance Week 2026, May 8, 2026
  • Speaker, "AI Companion Tech Governance," Privacy and Security Forum, George Washington University, May 7, 2026
  • Moderator, "AI Companions: Design, Safety, and Governance," UN AI for Good Law Track Conference, Stanford Law School, April 15, 2026
  • Speaker, "Briefing: AI Companion Tech Governance," Better Business Bureau National Programs, January 13, 2025
  • Speaker, "Influencer Marketing: Compliance, Enforcement, and Legal Risks," ABA Webinar, November 20, 2025
  • Speaker, "Reviews and regulation: global public policy update," Coalition for Trusted Reviews Annual Conference, October 15, 2025
  • Speaker, "Executive Panel: AI Policy Meets Business Reality: Managing Risks, Embracing Rewards," AI and Governance Executive Forum, Crummer Graduate School of Business, April 1, 2025
  • Speaker, "AI Enforcement," 2024 Fall Conference, Program on Corporate Compliance and Enforcement, NYU School of Law, November 22, 2024
  • Speaker, "Steering Clear of AI Washing," The Buzz with BCLB Webinar Series, Berkeley Center for Law and Business, October 16, 2024
  • Speaker, "AI as a Target and a Tool," Antitrust Spring Conference, American Bar Association, April 10, 2024

Media Mentions

Prior Experience

Prior to joining DLA Piper, Michael worked for nearly two decades in the Federal Trade Commission's Bureau of Consumer Protection, holding several management positions and serving most recently as a senior staff attorney in the Division of Advertising Practices. He has also worked for the Massachusetts Attorney General, the Maine Office of Securities, a New York law firm, and a federal judge.

My latest insights

Publication
Red optical fibre

Colorado pulls back on AI regulation

19 May 2026

Publication

Unpacking SB5: Connecticut’s new AI law

7 May 2026

Events
Red optical fibre

AI claims and disclosures: Securities law risks from development to deployment

26 March 2026 .2 minute read

View All
CallvCardLinkedInPrint

Connect

Phone

+1 202 799 4256
(Work, Washington, DC)