Michael M. Baylson

Michael M. Baylson is an Adjunct Professor of Law at the University of Pennsylvania Law School, bringing decades of experience from both the bench and legal practice. He serves as a U.S. District Judge for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, appointed in 2002, and has held prominent roles in public service and private practice.

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree, University of Pennsylvania (W’61)
• Juris Doctor, University of Pennsylvania Law School (L’64)

His expertise lies in civil litigation, class actions, antitrust, and securities law, with a strong commitment to public service and legal reform. He has contributed significantly to the legal system through judicial service and policy work, particularly in civil procedure through his membership on the Advisory Committee on Civil Rules of the Judicial Conference of the United States.

Throughout his career, Judge Baylson has demonstrated leadership in both legal practice and social impact, notably as a founder and counsel to Gaudenzia, Inc., Pennsylvania’s largest nonprofit provider of drug, alcohol, and mental health rehabilitation services. His work bridges the legal system and public welfare, emphasizing justice and rehabilitation.

He previously served as U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania (1988–1993) and was a partner at Duane Morris, where he chaired the Trial Department and served on the firm’s Executive Committee. His early career included roles as Assistant District Attorney and Chief of the Homicide Division under Arlen Specter.