Michael solves challenging distressed loan problems.
Michael solves difficult problems involving distressed commercial and agricultural loans. Lenders look to him for enforcement of their rights when they have lost money or have dissipating collateral and are facing challenges that they cannot solve on their own. His advocacy frequently includes enforcing loans, crafting workouts and representing clients in state and federal courts (including bankruptcy proceedings) on matters involving defaulted borrowers. Michael takes a straightforward, no-nonsense approach, seeking to maximize recoveries while minimizing time and fees. He is one of just a handful of attorneys in Missouri, Kansas, Iowa and Utah who is board certified in Business Bankruptcy by the American Board of Certification.*
In addition to his in-the-trenches experience, clients appreciate Michael's reputation as a thought leader. He has authored over 40 articles nationally and internationally and given more than 100 presentations and podcasts. His recent writings and speaking engagements illuminate critical issues for banks and other lending institutions wrestling with troubled loans. Michael also proactively advises clients on minimizing exposure to bankruptcy avoidance actions such as preferential transfers and constructively fraudulent conveyances. His extremely efficient approach has generated very low settlement amounts for clients on multi-million dollar claims while minimizing both the time and attorney’s fees needed to get those results. His work includes the development of Pref-Defend—a proprietary program used to efficiently defend preferential transfer claims for which Michael was given a Top Legal Innovation Award.
*The American Board of Certification’s Business Bankruptcy certification program is accredited by the American Bar Association. Neither the Supreme Court of Missouri nor The Missouri Bar reviews or approves certifying organizations or special designations.