About Michael
Michael Costello: Commercial and Corporate Litigation Attorney in Troy, Michigan
Michael Costello is a seasoned legal professional specializing in commercial and corporate law and litigation, offering deep expertise and strategic counsel to businesses and high-net-worth individuals. With over 23 years of experience as general counsel to a publicly-traded company, Mr. Costello leverages a comprehensive understanding of complex legal and business challenges to deliver efficient and effective solutions. His background includes significant leadership roles within a highly-regulated insurance environment, providing a unique perspective on regulatory compliance, corporate transactions, and risk management. He is dedicated to providing proactive legal counsel and safeguarding the interests of his clients across a wide range of industries.
Mr. Costello’s approach centers on providing insightful guidance and tailored strategies, built upon a strong foundation of practical experience. He frequently advises board members and executive teams on crucial matters relating to corporate governance, ensuring adherence to legal requirements and facilitating sound strategic decision-making. His commitment extends beyond traditional legal services, encompassing proactive risk mitigation and assisting clients in navigating complex financial transactions.
As Outside General Counsel to a publicly-traded pharmaceutical company, and as special counsel to numerous other businesses, Mr. Costello handles a diverse portfolio of matters, including corporate law, insurance litigation, and complex commercial disputes. He excels at providing clear, concise legal advice and effectively representing clients' interests in a variety of settings.
Key Accomplishments at Meadowbrook Insurance Group
Mr. Costello’s tenure as General Counsel of Meadowbrook Insurance Group was marked by significant leadership and accomplishment. He was responsible for the legal department and all of its activities for this large, complex, and highly-regulated company. His primary responsibilities included:
- Strategic Litigation Management: Mr. Costello expertly managed and supervised litigation against the company, successfully defending a broad spectrum of claims, including shareholder class actions, SEC inquiries, coverage and bad faith litigation, reinsurance disputes, and significant employment and commercial cases across the United States.
- Operational Leadership: He effectively managed the public company’s HR, claims, and internal audit departments, demonstrating a holistic understanding of the organization’s operations.
- Mergers and Acquisitions: Mr. Costello led the legal department through thirteen corporate acquisitions, two public company mergers, and several insurance agency acquisitions, expertly navigating the complexities of these transactions.
- Regulatory Compliance: He maintained meticulous compliance with all SEC securities filing requirements and managed the completion of all insurance holding company filings, leading responses to all regulatory examinations.
- Financial Transactions: Mr. Costello successfully oversaw a corporate recapitalization, secondary offering, convertible debt offering, credit agreements, and the sale of the company, demonstrating proficiency in complex financial transactions.
Professional Affiliations & Recognition
Mr. Costello is actively involved in several professional and charitable organizations, reflecting his commitment to the legal community and broader philanthropic endeavors:
- University of Detroit Mercy School of Law: Dean’s Advisory Board Member (2016-Present), Oakland Hills Country Club Evans Scholar Committee (2016-Present), Alumni Association – Past President and Director
- American Society of Corporate Secretaries: Member
- Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC): Michigan Chapter – Past President and Director, ACC Foundation Michigan Chapter – Past President and Director
- Insurance Institute of Michigan: Past Director and Executive Committee Member
- Federation of Defense Counsel: Past Member
- Oakland County Bar Foundation: Past Director
Mr. Costello’s dedication to the legal profession has been widely recognized, including recognition as a Leader in the Law by Michigan Lawyers Weekly (2008) and the Time & Talent Award for volunteer contributions to the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law (2012).
Education & Credentials:
- Adjunct Professor, WMU-Cooley Law School – Teaching Insurance and Reinsurance Law within the Insurance LL.M. program
- Bar Admissions: Active member of the State of Michigan Bar
- Awards & Recognition: Leader in the Law – Michigan Lawyers Weekly (2008), Time & Talent Award – University of Detroit Mercy School of Law (2012)
Practice Areas: Commercial Litigation, Corporate Law, Insurance Law
Awards: Recognized: Commercial Litigation, Recognized: Corporate Law, Recognized: Insurance Law
Affiliations: American Society of Corporate Secretaries, Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC) Michigan Chapter, ACC Foundation Michigan Chapter, Insurance Institute of Michigan, Federation of Defense Counsel, Oakland County Bar Foundation
Recognized Since: Recognized in Best Attorney USA since 2021
City: Troy, State: Michigan, Country: United States
