Schuyler, Roche & Crisham, P.C. Large enough to to the job right, small enough to listen
 

Michael J. Faley
Associate

For Michael Faley, a deep sense of purpose guides his love of the law - being able to help people solve their problems in a meaningful way that can greatly impact their lives. This attraction led him from a short-lived career as a CPA following college to the place he knew he belonged.

Michael's journey in the legal realm began at The John Marshall Law School, where he made the Dean's List en route to his J.D. degree. He distinguished himself in law school by becoming a member and an assistant editor of The John Marshall Law Review, earning the Louis Bario Academic Scholarship, and serving as a member of the Niagara Moot Court Team.

Following his graduation, Michael served as law clerk to the Honorable John J. Bowman in the Illinois Appellate Court. There, Michael gained a thorough indoctrination to the world of appellate law, assisting Judge Bowman in the preparation of opinions and researching numerous legal and equitable topics - temporary and permanent injunctive relief, malpractice actions, corporate and partnership disputes, insurance coverage and declaratory judgment actions.

Once in private practice, Michael's initiative and drive served him well in quickly establishing an important presence within the firm. Among his early contributions: advised insurers on their rights and responsibilities regarding multi-million dollar first party and third party insurance coverage claims; won a judgment in excess of $1 million for a client in an insurance coverage dispute; prepared an amicus brief to the Illinois Supreme Court on behalf of the Illinois Society of Professional Engineers and the American Council of Engineering Companies of Illinois; and prepared briefs to the Illinois Appellate Court, Illinois Supreme Court, and Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals.

A prolific writer and author, Michael has contributed to and published articles in such publications as the International Directory of Legal Qualifications, IDC Critical Paths, ALA Magazine, Illinois Legal Research, and the IADC Newsletter. Since 2005, he has worked closely with a Chicago legal aid clinic, serving as Board Treasurer of the Pro Bono Advocates.

Michael's practice with Schuyler, Roche & Crisham concentrates in commercial and civil litigation, including professional liability, personal injury defense, construction law, ERISA, employment litigation, and closely-held corporation disputes.