Michael J. Cefalu represents defendants and insurers in a wide range of civil litigation matters. His experience includes motor vehicle and trucking accidents, construction defect claims, coverage disputes, bad faith and breach of contract matters, HIPAA compliance issues, property damage claims, and general negligence cases in both state and federal courts. He effectively manages all aspects of litigation, including drafting pleadings and motions, conducting legal research, managing discovery, taking and defending depositions, working with expert witnesses, and participating in mediations and oral arguments.

Michael earned his Juris Doctor, cum laude, from Mississippi College School of Law in May 2021. While in law school, he was awarded the Peter L. Dorian Memorial Scholarship and served as a Dean’s Ambassador. He received his Bachelor of Arts in Humanities and Social Sciences from Louisiana State University in December 2013.

Before joining Chartwell, Michael gained experience litigating personal injury and insurance defense matters, as well as assisting senior attorneys with criminal and civil litigation. He also served as an extern with the Mississippi Volunteer Lawyers’ Project, where he assisted indigent clients with criminal expungement and divorce matters.

Outside of his legal practice, Michael enjoys working out, spending time with his wife and children, and playing video games. He is an avid fan of mixed martial arts and college football.