Michael L. O’Donnell

Michael L. O’Donnell is a commercial litigation lawyer whose practice includes product liability, class actions, mass torts, professional liability, catastrophic injury defense, environmental litigation, and securities enforcement defense. He has taken more than 85 trials to verdict and has served as lead defense counsel across the country in high-stakes matters. His work helps companies manage major risk, defend claims effectively, and resolve complex disputes through trial and negotiation successfully.

Michael earned his J.D. from the University of Denver Sturm College of Law and his B.A. in English from the University of Notre Dame. His education gave him a strong foundation in legal analysis, advocacy, writing, and case strategy. That academic training supports his work in complex litigation involving technical facts, large-scale claims, and significant business exposure.

Throughout his career, Michael has represented major national and international companies in product liability, commercial litigation, class actions, and professional liability matters. He has served as national trial and resolution counsel for leading businesses and helped secure defense verdicts, favorable rulings, and major settlements in cases involving substantial financial and reputational risk. Clients rely on his courtroom experience, negotiation skills, and strategic judgment when facing complicated disputes with serious consequences.

Michael L. O’Donnell is also widely recognized for leadership in the legal profession and for his contributions to trial practice. He has held major roles in respected legal organizations, taught and lectured extensively, and earned honors for professionalism, ethics, and client service. Clients benefit from his disciplined approach, broad industry knowledge, and trial strength. He consistently remains a trusted advocate for businesses facing high-exposure litigation and other complex legal challenges nationwide.

Law Office Affiliations

• Firm Chair, Wheeler Trigg O’Donnell LLP
• Fellow, American College of Trial Lawyers
• Fellow, International Academy of Trial Lawyers
• Member, American Board of Trial Advocates
• Member, Diversity Law Institute
• Member, International Association of Defense Counsel
• Member, Colorado Trial Lawyers Association
• Fellow, Colorado Bar Foundation
• Vice President, Denver Bar Association
• Life Fellow, American Bar Foundation

Licensed State

• Colorado
• Wyoming

Education

• University of Denver Sturm College of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Notre Dame
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges