Mike often leverages his accounting background and experience with actuarial principles to help his clients with defined benefit plans work through the legal and financial issues either being raised by the PBGC or by parties in the context of M&A activity.  This work often includes identifying proactive measures the client can take to address potential areas of concern.  In other matters involving the PBGC, it can involve a financial settlement or litigation.

If litigation does ensue, Michael is first and foremost a trial lawyer.  He teams with in-house counsel to distill and communicate what can be challenging legal issues in a way that is effective for senior leadership teams, and he leverages decades of experience to develop cost-effective defense strategies. Michael has a track record of trying cases to successful verdicts.

Michael served as Groom’s Managing Principal from 2016 through 2021, and is a former member of Groom’s Executive Committee and former chair of the Litigation practice group.

“He is exceptional in the subject matter, client satisfaction and approachability.” – Client

Honors & Distinctions

  • Listed, Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business, ERISA Litigation (2008-2023)
  • Listed, The Best Lawyers in America, Litigation - ERISA (2016-2024)
  • Lawyer of the Year, The Best Lawyers in America, Litigation - ERISA (2023)
  • Listed, The Best Lawyers in America, Litigation - ERISA (2024)
  • Hall of Fame, The Legal 500 US, ERISA litigation (2008-2022)
  • Hall of Fame, The Legal 500 US, Employee benefits, executive compensation and retirement plans: design (2019)
  • Hall of Fame, The Legal 500 US, Employee benefits, executive compensation and retirement plans: transactional (2019)
  • Listed, Super Lawyers, Employee Benefits (2016-2023)

          Groom Law Group | The Legal 500 Hall of Fame

The legal issues we work on not only impact how companies do business today but often shape the legal landscape for years to come.

 

Related Resources

Publications

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Groom Benefits Brief

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01/30/2019

Groom Benefits Brief

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Groom Benefits Brief

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10/31/2016

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04/30/2012

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10/19/2011

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06/01/2011

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06/08/2009

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12/01/2004