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Michael Hamersky
GRIFFIN HAMERSKY LLP
Professional Background
Michael Hamersky is a highly esteemed principal at Griffin Hamersky LLP, where he specializes in bankruptcy and insolvency law. With a career spanning more than a decade, Michael has built an impressive repertoire in litigation, gaining valuable experience by participating in various stages of over 1,000 adversary proceedings. His work primarily focuses on avoidance actions and the complex processes involved in filing, preparing, and administering mega-preference projects, resulting in recoveries exceeding $20 million. Michael has demonstrated his extensive prowess in analyzing and prosecuting bankruptcy claims, as well as defending creditors' claims with consistent success.
One of Michael's most notable achievements involves his participation in ERISA healthcare litigation, where he played a crucial role in negotiations on behalf of a Section 1114 Committee. This culminated in a landmark $67 million settlement for retired employees, showcasing his dedication to achieving favorable outcomes for clients while navigating the intricate landscapes of bankruptcy law.
Additionally, Michael's instrumental role in guiding the iconic Columbia House brand through the Chapter 11 bankruptcy process highlights his adeptness at handling high-profile cases, further establishing him as a prominent figure in the legal field.
Education and Achievements
Michael Hamersky's education has laid a solid foundation for his successful career. He earned his Juris Doctor (JD) degree from the prestigious Fordham University School of Law, where he honed his knowledge of law and legal strategies. Prior to his law degree, he obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Psychology from Boston University, providing him with a diverse perspective that enriches his legal practice.
Michael’s achievements have been widely recognized within the legal community. His dedication and proficiency in the field were acknowledged when he was named a “Rising Star” in 2016 by the New York Times Magazine, an accolade reserved for top attorneys in Metro New York who exhibit exceptional diligence in their practice.
Areas of Expertise
Michael Hamersky’s areas of expertise include:
- Bankruptcy Law
- Insolvency Law
- Adversary Proceedings
- ERISA Healthcare Litigation
- Creditor Representation
- Executive Contract Renegotiation
- Multi-Billion Dollar Intellectual Property Litigation
Michael has a successful track record representing a wide array of clients, including debtors, statutory committees, bankruptcy trustees, post-confirmation trusts, and creditors across various industries. These sectors include automotive, healthcare, retail, real estate, aviation, legal, and imaging. His versatility and adaptability in handling cases across these differing industries is a testament to his skills as a bankruptcy attorney.
Michael's legal career also includes serving as an adjunct professor at Fordham University School of Law, where he contributed his knowledge and experience to the next generation of legal professionals, shaping their understanding of bankruptcy and insolvency law.
Throughout his career, Michael has tackled numerous complex issues, including:
- Renegotiation of executory contracts that were critical to Chrysler’s reorganization efforts.
- Calculation of lease rejection damages for various clients.
- Navigating Section 553 setoff mutuality issues, which has significant legal and financial implications in bankruptcy cases.
- Accelerating amounts due under specific financial instruments and assessing the enforceability of cancellation clauses.
- Addressing unique challenges presented in a multi-billion dollar intellectual property litigation against industry leader Apple, showcasing his skill in high-stakes negotiations.
Michael's collaborative approach and adaptability make him a dependable ally for clients facing challenges in the bankruptcy realm. His history of achieving substantial recoveries and favorable settlements speaks to his commitment to client advocacy and expertise in resolving complex legal matters.
