Leighton Watson represents clients in high-stakes litigation, corporate investigations, complex security incident investigations, and government enforcement and white collar matters.

Leighton focuses his practice on assisting clients in navigating investigations of all types, including allegations of fraud, corruption, securities and other regulatory violations. He has conducted investigations related to Title IX, as well. He defends clients in complex commercial litigation and follow-on litigation as a result of investigations.

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He also advises clients on matters involving artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data protection, data privacy and consumer protection. He counsels clients on legal risk and compliance strategies in connection with evolving regulatory frameworks, SEC regulations and emerging technologies, including AI-driven tools and data security programs.

Professional Highlights

  • Recognized by Law.com as a runner up for National Litigators of the Week (2024)
  • Named to The National Black Lawyers “Top 40 Under 40” (2025)

Education

  • J.D., Harvard Law School

    B.A., English, Howard University

Admissions

  • District of Columbia

    Michigan

Courts

  • U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan

    D.C. Superior Courts

Clerkships

  • Law Clerk, Hon. Victoria A. Roberts, U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan (2020-2021)