Michael leads the commercial dispute resolution team and is regarded as a market leader for construction disputes. He has been a Partner since 2003. He provides advice to clients in relation to building contract litigation and arbitration, professional negligence claims, property litigation and debt recovery. He also has wide experience of advising in relation to company shareholder disputes and breach of contract claims. His breadth of experience in handling commercial disputes has earned him a reputation as a top commercial litigator. He is a member of the Society of Construction Law.
Michael is qualified to act in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
“Michael very quickly gets to grips with the engineering aspects of each case and is very good at identifying strengths and weaknesses in the plaintiff’s case.” Chambers UK
“He brings a level of experience, skill and knowledge to each case which makes the difference between a good and an excellent outcome. Michael is a highly professional, insightful and committed lawyer.” Chambers UK
“He is a consummate professional who will be all over the detail. He is strategic and responsive.” Chambers UK
- Acted for the developers of Holywood Exchange in proceedings which went to the House of Lords in securing planning permission for this major out of town retail development.
- Acted for the minority shareholder in company shareholder litigation ultimately securing a “split” of businesses worth circa £130M between the rival shareholders.
- Acted for an M&E sub-contractor in proceedings concerning the construction of a local hospital where there were pin hole leaks in pipework and claims were required against sub-contractors and insurers.
- Acting for a local construction company in respect of a building contract claim in respect of a major apartment block where the residents have been evacuated.
- Acted for a joint venture roads contractor in respect of professional negligence claims against the road designers in respect of 2 x major road schemes in NI.
- Acting for a government department in the defence of multiple Adjudications arising out of a recently completed road scheme in NI.
- Acting for a USA aircraft corporation in the defence of a £30M guarantee claim in respect of the supply of aircraft parts.
