Overview
Michael Fires has broad-based litigation experience representing large and small businesses, as well as individuals, in a variety of forums. He regularly serves as the lead associate in litigation, arbitration and enforcement proceedings. His experience includes authoring numerous briefs, motions and reports; devising litigation strategy and regulatory guidance; supervising teams of associates; and leading discovery, witness interviews and trial preparation. In addition to his civil litigation practice, Michael has helped lead numerous internal investigations, as well as defend investigations launched by financial regulators, the U.S. Congress and other government entities.
Prior Experience
Before joining Faegre Drinker, Michael was a litigation associate at a multinational law firm in Washington, D.C., concentrating on civil disputes, regulatory inquiries and white collar representation.
While in law school, he served as a legal intern on the Senate Judiciary Committee, an executive editor for the Georgetown Journal of Legal Ethics, and a member of the Georgetown University Law Center’s Barristers’ Council Appellate Advocacy Division.
Personal Interests
Outside the office, Michael enjoys visiting D.C.’s newest restaurants and spending time with his wife, daughter and two dogs.
Related Industries
Credentials
Bar Admissions
District of Columbia
Pennsylvania
Court Admissions
U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit
U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia
Education
Georgetown University Law Center
J.D. cum laude, The Georgetown Journal of Legal Ethics (executive editor) (2018)
Emory University
B.A. in History and Political Science, summa cum laude (2015)
Insights & Events
Insights
Other Perspectives
Regulating Conduct: A Model Rule Against Discrimination and the Importance of Legitimate Advocacy
30 Georgetown Journal of Legal Ethics 735 (2017)
INSIGHT: Attorney-Client Privilege Tips for Congressional Investigations
Co-author, Bloomberg Law (May 20, 2020)
Leadership & Community
Pro Bono
Michael served as the lead associate in a successful pro bono representation of a stateless family seeking asylum in the United States. He conducted the direct examination of the client in court, prepared the family and various witnesses for multiple hearings, and drafted the winning merits brief.
Michael has also counseled additional clients seeking asylum in the United States, and has represented various organizations and individuals with pro bono matters in federal court.
Professional Associations
American Bar Association — Young Lawyers Division and Section of Litigation
Civic Activities
United States Holocaust Museum — Event Committee, Evening to Honor Holocaust Survivors
Georgetown University Law Center’s Business Law Scholars Program — Mentor
Honors
Capital Pro Bono Honor Roll, 2018-22