Michael Ruocco is a Partner in Freeman Mathis & Gary, LLP’s Los Angeles - LAX office. Michael is a seasoned litigator and trusted advocate who represents businesses, executives, and professionals in high-stakes litigation in both federal and state courts. His D&O practice spans shareholder derivative claims, fraud and misrepresentation, breach of contract, unfair business practices, and other intricate business disputes.

Michael has extensive trial experience, having successfully handled four arbitrations and six multi-week jury trials. Clients rely on Michael not just for his ability to win in court, but also for his practical, business-oriented approach to litigation. He is committed to efficient, cost-effective case resolution, whether through early negotiation, strategic motion practice, or, when necessary, aggressive trial advocacy.

Michael focuses on professional liability defense, representing insurers, agencies, and insurance agents in complex litigation, including cases involving premium-financed life insurance products. He recently played a key role in resolving a high-stakes case arising from the Maui wildfires, showcasing his ability to manage litigation with national significance and substantial financial exposure. Beyond insurance professionals, Michael also defends securities broker-dealers, registered representatives, and investment advisors in FINRA and SEC regulatory matters. Additionally, he represents real estate agents and brokerages in disputes concerning breach of fiduciary duty, failure to disclose material facts, misrepresentation, and professional negligence.

With a reputation as a trial-ready advocate, Michael thrives in the courtroom while also developing creative, out-of-the-box solutions that align with his clients’ business and financial goals. Whether resolving cases through strategic negotiation or fighting relentlessly at trial, Michael is dedicated to protecting his clients’ interests with skill, precision, and unwavering commitment.

California

• Secured an 11-1 defense verdict for a general insurance agent in a two-week jury trial, successfully defeating breach of contract and failure to procure workers’ compensation insurance claims.
• Complete defense award on behalf of broker-dealer in FINRA arbitration against former registered representative alleging breach of contract where claimant’s requested damages were $9,000,000.
• Secured a complete defense award for an independent distributor of a multi-level marketing company in a high-stakes JAMS arbitration, defeating all claims and protecting the client’s business interests.
• Obtained directed verdict immediately prior to closing arguments on behalf of a tenant in a five-day unlawful detainer trial.
• Obtained summary judgment on behalf of an insurer seeking declaratory relief and reimbursement from an aviation technology company resulting in a seven-figure judgment.
• Dismissal of action against a prominent surgery center in Newport Beach brought by a disgruntled former surgeon.
• Summary judgment for an insurer in a bad faith action filed by a surgery facility, successfully defeating claims over the denial of coverage related to the termination of multiple physicians.
• Secured $40,000 settlement in securities case involving investment losses totaling over $2,000,000.
• Successfully negotiated settlements in three complex cases involving premium-financed life insurance products, mitigating multimillion-dollar losses and avoiding protracted litigation for clients.

2025-2026 Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America^™