Michael S. Paradise

Michael S. Paradise is a Partner at McLaughlin & Stern with over 35 years of legal experience. He has been described as a “lawyer’s lawyer” and represents both corporate and individual clients. His expertise spans corporate law, mergers and acquisitions, securities regulation, real estate, intellectual property, employment law, litigation, and arbitration. In addition to advising on business transactions and regulatory matters, he also assists clients in trusts and estates planning and administration, handling complex estate structures with a strong understanding of the business issues involved.

Michael earned his J.D., with honors (1987), from The National Law Center of The George Washington University. He holds a B.A., cum laude (1984), from the University of Rochester, where he also earned a Certificate in International Relations.

Michael has built his career at top-tier law firms, including Cahill Gordon & Reindel LLP and Rosenman & Colin LLP (now Katten Muchin Rosenman). He advises clients on a broad range of business and corporate legal matters, including business transactions, corporate governance, cross-border joint ventures, commercial leasing, licensing, labor and employment, and regulatory compliance. From 2016 to 2019, Michael served as Executive Vice President and General Counsel at Steven Madden, Ltd., where he oversaw all legal functions—corporate, real estate, licensing, intellectual property, litigation, and regulatory matters—supporting the company’s global growth and operations.

With his broad expertise, Michael acts as general counsel for businesses and individuals, assembling teams of experts to handle multi-national and complex legal challenges. His strong network in the legal and business world allows him to provide strategic solutions for clients.

Earlier in his career, Michael S. Paradise founded a hedge fund and venture capital group and played a key role in establishing one of the first online restaurant delivery platforms, now known as Delivery.com. Michael frequently writes and speaks on topics related to financial, corporate, and fashion law. His ability to navigate complex legal and business issues makes him a trusted advisor in the industry.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, McLaughlin & Stern, LLP
• Member, New York State Bar Association

Licensed State

• New York

Education

• National Law Center of The George Washington University
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Rochester
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges