Prior to joining Coffey Modica, Michael served for more than two decades as a partner at a national defense firm and previously as in-house counsel for a national insurance company. This combination of in-house and litigation experience gives him a unique perspective on insurer operations, claims evaluation, and defense strategy.

Michael is known for his ability to make complex technical issues clear and persuasive to juries. He frequently conducts on-site investigations, collaborates with experts, and implements early-intervention strategies that preserve key evidence and position cases for the best possible outcome.

A recognized leader in his field, Michael has successfully litigated and tried some of the most notable fire, explosion, and construction cases in the region. He was featured in Crain’s 2024 Notable General Counsels for the New York region and has been consistently selected as a Top Rated Attorney by Super Lawyers and Best Lawyers in America.

Michael is also a frequent lecturer and author. He has spoken at numerous industry conferences and CLE programs, including presenting the first fires and explosions lecture for the New York State Bar Association. He is a contributing author to Construction Site Personal Injury Litigation, New York Labor Law §§200, 240(1) & 241(6), published by the NYSBA, and writes regularly on evolving issues in insurance defense, including recent commentary on the New York Grieving Families Act and the risks associated with battery energy storage.

Drawing from his extensive experience in fire, explosion, and product liability matters, Michael is frequently consulted by private clients, municipalities, and other agencies regarding the dangers of lithium-ion batteries and battery energy storage system (BESS) facilities. He advises on safety protocols, regulatory compliance, and best practices for risk mitigation.

Michael earned his J.D. from St. John’s University School of Law and his B.A., cum laude, in Psychology and Philosophy from Binghamton University, where he was a member of the Psychology National Honor Society and a Teaching Assistant. He is admitted to practice in New York, New Jersey, the District of Columbia, and multiple federal district courts, and is active in the New York State Bar Association and the American Bar Association’s Tort & Insurance Practice Section.