Scott D. Michel Receives Jules Ritholz Memorial Merit Award from American Bar Association’s Tax Controversy Lawyers

Caplin & Drysdale is pleased to announce that Scott D. Michel, Member of Caplin & Drysdale, received the Jules Ritholz Memorial Merit Award from the American Bar Association Section of Taxation Civil & Criminal Tax Penalties Committee at the Committee’s annual lunch on Friday, May 9, 2025.

Established in 1994, the award honors Jules Ritholz, one of the legal pioneers in criminal tax defense and tax controversy, and it recognizes recipients with “outstanding legal work in the highly complex field of criminal and civil tax controversy litigation.” The award also honors the recipient’s work and dedication to the tax bar through their leadership and mentorship of young lawyers.

During the award presentation Mr. Michel was introduced by 2023 Ritholz Award recipient Larry Campagna, who recognized Scott’s contributions to the Tax Section and his role over his career as a mentor to so many other practitioners.   

Mr. Campagna said, “Like Jules before him there are countless members of this Committee who have been helped in some way by Scott in their career, whether it was a generous referral, … help as a mentor” or just someone to talk to about a hard issue. “Scott has always been able to see the issues that you can’t figure out and tell you the wisdom you need … to deal the problem.”

“I’m truly honored and immensely humbled receive this award. I’m grateful to my peers for recognizing me in this way.” Mr. Michel said about receiving the 2025 Ritholz Award.

During Mr. Michel’s four-plus decade career at Caplin & Drysdale, he has advised individuals, families, corporations, tax professionals, financial services firms, and others on five continents in criminal and civil tax enforcement and compliance matters. He served as the President of the firm for eight years and the Chair of the American Bar Association Section of Taxation during 2023-2024, and he currently serves as the Immediate Past Chair of the Section.

Caplin & Drysdale attorney Cono R. Namorato, another pioneer in tax controversy practice, received the Ritholz twenty-five years ago.  Mr. Namorato commented, “Scott is so deserving of this award. We’ve had a great time collaborating on different matters over the years and our firm is proud of the lawyer and leader he’s become.”