The design, synthesis, and structural characterization of two new palladium complexes based on Schiff base ligands is reported; [Pd(L1)(2)] (1) and [Pd(L-2)(2)] (2), [HL1 = 2-((E)-(2,6-diethylphenylimino)methyl)-4,6-dibromophenol, L2 = (E)-N-benzylidene-2,6-diethylbenzenamine], which are obtained by functionalizing Schiff base ligands with or without electron-withdrawing groups. Both compounds are mononuclear structures. Comparisons are made to the compounds 1 and 2 to analyze and understand the effect of electron-withdrawing groups. Antibacterial activity studies indicate the electron-withdrawing groups on Schiff base ligands enhance antibacterial activity. Catalytic activity, however, is reduced due to the enhanced steric-hindrance of the electron-withdrawing groups. Electronic absorption and emission properties of MA, L2, 1 and 2 are also reported.