“Ryan is a sophisticated, very deft strategic thinker who helps achieve success in thorny litigation matters.”
— Chambers USA 2026
Ryan Hedges is a former federal prosecutor with a national practice defending companies and individuals in sensitive, high-stakes matters involving government investigations, corporate internal reviews and complex criminal and civil litigation. A seasoned trial attorney and partner in BakerHostetler’s White Collar, Investigations and Securities Enforcement and Litigation team, Ryan represents clients facing allegations of criminal healthcare fraud and violations of the federal Anti-Kickback Statute (AKS); violations of the False Claims Act (FCA) and the securities laws, including public company accounting and insider trading violations; as well as government contracting fraud, official bribery and export control violations, among many others. Whether leading an internal investigation, fighting allegations before or after indictment, resolving a dispute or taking a case to trial, Ryan delivers measured and decisive counsel that protects reputations and safeguards business interests and individual liberty.
As an assistant United States attorney in the Northern District of Illinois, Ryan led investigations and prosecuted complex financial and health care fraud cases. From that experience, Ryan gained significant knowledge and insight as to how the government investigates and charges cases, and where defenses can be developed and fortified. Ryan identifies weaknesses in enforcement strategies, counters prosecutorial overreach and constructs strategic defenses that anticipate next moves. Clients rely on his ability to assess legal exposure, navigate evolving regulatory frameworks and develop tailored solutions that achieve results.
Ryan has secured trial victories, resolved parallel civil and criminal matters on favorable terms and successfully guided corporations through sensitive legal and regulatory challenges. He has represented business leaders, executives and professionals in government investigations of fraud, financial crimes and regulatory matters. Whether arguing to the court or to a jury, directing an internal review or structuring a compliance strategy, Ryan ensures his clients are equipped, protected and positioned for success.
Ryan serves on the firm’s Emergency Equitable Relief Team, which mobilizes attorneys across the firm to address urgent litigation challenges and expedited court proceedings. Ryan also serves on the firm’s Pro Bono Committee and as the Pro Bono Coordinator for the Chicago office.
