Michael D. Warner

Michael D. Warner is a nationally recognized attorney with more than four decades of experience in corporate restructuring and insolvency. He has guided clients through highly complex financial and legal matters, offering strategic advice grounded in both courtroom expertise and business acumen. His approach blends litigation strength with negotiation skill.

Michael earned a Bachelor of Science in accounting from California State University, Northridge in 1981, giving him a solid foundation in financial analysis. He went on to receive his Juris Doctor from Southwestern University School of Law in 1984. His legal and financial training gives him a distinct advantage when handling valuation, insolvency, and fraud-related issues.

Michael has been appointed by courts in a range of high-stakes roles, including as postconfirmation trustee, examiner, and chapter 7 trustee in major bankruptcy cases. These include IEH Auto Parts (PepBoys), Talen Energy Supply, and ASARCO. His ability to navigate sensitive fiduciary matters has made him a trusted figure in corporate restructurings.

Michael has worked across numerous industries, including oil and gas, energy, mortgage lending, hospitality, technology, and agriculture. His clients include debtors, secured and unsecured creditors, equity holders, and court-appointed fiduciaries. He has represented clients both in and out of court, always focusing on their financial goals and legal protection.

Michael is known for finding creative solutions in complex disputes. He has handled significant litigation involving fiduciary breaches, lien disputes, valuation challenges, and fraudulent transfers. His accounting background allows him to work closely with expert witnesses and break down financial details with clarity and accuracy.

Michael also frequently represents clients on official creditors’ committees. In this role, he sits beside clients to advise on strategic moves, underscoring the importance of the committee’s voice in Chapter 11 cases. His guidance has helped protect creditors’ rights while fostering fair and efficient outcomes.

Michael D. Warner continues to bring a sharp financial eye and legal precision to every case, ensuring his clients are well-positioned in any restructuring scenario. His work stands out for its depth, strategy, and results-driven focus.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Pachulski Stang Ziehl & Jones LLP
• Member, United States Supreme Court

Licensed State

• California
• Texas

Education

• Southwestern University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• California State University Northridge
  Bachelor of Science (BS)

Awards & Badges