Described as ‘tenacious’, ‘approachable’ and providing ‘first-class legal analysis’, Michael Fealy is a leading silk who practises across the broad range of commercial law, litigation and international commercial arbitration.
His approach combines deeply-grounded technical expertise with calm and clear communication, and a down-to-earth style. He is regularly praised for his ability to cut through complexity, his fearlessness in court, and his willingness to work closely as part of a team with clients and solicitors to achieve successful outcomes.
His client base includes listed companies, owner-managed enterprises, energy businesses and government agencies, based in the UK and overseas. Michael has experience in numerous international commercial arbitrations governed by a variety of rules, in FSA disciplinary proceedings and in expert determinations.
Called to the Bar in 1997, he became a QC in 2014. He is also a member of the Irish Bar (1995).
What the Directories Say
Michael is regularly recommended by the UK’s leading legal directories for both his legal expertise and his approachable attitude.
“A responsive, can-do, user-friendly modern day QC – as comfortable on his feet leading the case as he is crafting documents.” Legal 500 2020 - Commercial Litigation
“A responsive and user-friendly QC with an unassuming manner and a sharp intellect.” Legal 500 2020 - Energy
"A commanding advocate who has real presence in court." "Michael is extremely diligent and approachable, and he applies first-class legal analysis to a case."
Chambers UK 2020 - Commercial Dispute Resolution
"A standout lawyer – incisive with a great courtroom manner."
Legal 500 2019-2020 - Energy
"Has a natural feel for the issues in a case and is quite down-to-earth." "He's very approachable and authoritative in the way he explains things."
Chambers UK 2019
‘Calm and unflappable; his submissions are measured, realistic and persuasive.’
Legal 500 2019
"Utterly tenacious and a joy to work with, particularly on cross-border disputes." "The points he makes are very good, and he gets judges on side."
Chambers UK 2018
"Extremely diligent, he offers first-class legal analysis."
Chambers UK 2017
“Clients simply love Michael. A smooth and forceful advocate, who is brilliantly clever and a great team player". "Extremely diligent and someone with first-class legal analysis".
Chambers UK 2016
"An iron fist in a silk glove when in court." "He's fantastic at seeing the wood for the trees and being able to navigate all of the complexities in a case. He makes matters simple so that both the client and judge understand his position."
Chambers UK 2015
"Very hard-working, very thorough and very clever."
Chambers UK 2015
Areas of Expertise - Some Highlights
The cases below reflect some of the more important matters that Michael has handled, across a variety of practice areas.