Defending Products and Premises Claims in High-Exposure Cases

Michele is a member of the firm’s Asbestos Defense Litigation, Products Liability, and Transportation Section. Her practice centers on the defense of complex products liability claims, with additional experience representing clients in premises and general liability matters. Michele serves as national expert coordinating counsel for an asbestos supplier. In this role, Michele investigates medical and scientific issues and coordinates expert retentions to develop trial strategy and defenses. Her ability to translate complex medical issues into persuasive courtroom strategy has positioned her as a trusted resource for clients nationally.

Notable Work & Achievements

National Coordination of Medical and Scientific Defenses

Michele manages, directs, and coordinates the development of medical and scientific defenses and expert retention for a defendant in asbestos litigation nationwide. This involves evaluating medical issues of plaintiffs, including diagnostic and causal considerations, and preparing experts for depositions and trials. She reviews and analyzes current and emerging medical and scientific literature relevant to the defense of asbestos-related litigation to fully prepare defense experts and trial team members.

Development of National Expert Resources

She also assists companies in the development of experts in various medical and scientific disciplines to support the defense of asbestos and cosmetic talc cases.

Strategic Motion Practice and Expert Challenges

She has drafted dispositive, Daubert, and other expert-related motions across the country, including in federal court in Strong v. Honeywell International Inc., No. 2:20-CV-0136-TOR (E.D. Wa. 2021). These efforts have consistently narrowed claims, excluded unreliable expert testimony, and reduced client exposure.

Defense of National Asbestos and Product Liability Claims

Michele represents national product manufacturers, premises owners, and suppliers in asbestos litigation involving allegations related to boilers, friction materials, pumps, valves, joint compound and other products. She conducts depositions and prepares experts for depositions and trial examinations, ensuring that client defenses are trial-ready in matters with regional and national implications.

Appellate Success in Insurance Litigation

She also achieved a significant victory in an accidental death insurance action, winning summary judgment at the trial level and successfully defending the result on appeal before the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit in Blosch v. Transamerica Premier Life Ins. Co., 284 Va. 282, 726 S.E.2d 251 (2020).