Michael B. Gelfound is a Partner in Freeman Mathis & Gary’s Los Angeles office. Mr. Gelfound has an array of insurance coverage experience and is skillful in resolving complex insurance coverage disputes. Mr. Gelfound represents insurers in state and federal courts, arbitration, and mediation. Mr. Gelfound is highly experienced in representing insurers in declaratory relief actions and against claims of bad faith and extra-contractual damages, involving automobile/UIM/cargo/rental, residential and commercial property, CGL and government policies.
Mr. Gelfound also works with insurance companies in pre-litigation matters, such as investigation of a claim which often include an examination under oath, and provides coverage opinions on a wide range of insurance coverage issues.
Before practicing law, Mr. Gelfound was a certified public accountant where he has extensive experience handling tax matters for individuals, corporate entities, partnerships, LLC’s, trusts and estates. As an attorney, Mr. Gelfound represents accountants/CPAs and accounting firms in malpractice claims and taxpayers before the IRS and state taxing authorities which include private letter rulings, abatement of tax penalties, and other relief.
Mr. Gelfound aggressively seeks a quick and cost-effective resolution for his clients, but is trial-ready when necessary. Mr. Gelfound has prevailed on numerous dispositive motions such as motions to dismiss and motions for summary judgment, and has prevailed in trial and appellate courts.
Mr. Gelfound also contributes to professional insurance organizations such as CLM and DRI.
Mr. Gelfound graduated magna cum laude from Southwestern Law School, where he was a member of the Law Review and received numerous academic awards. Mr. Gelfound received his undergraduate degree from the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he majored in Business and Economics with an emphasis in accounting.
