Michael R. Switzer, B.A. (Hons.), LL.B.
Ottawa Office

Michael received his Bachelor of Arts (High Honours) in Law at Carleton University in 1998.  Thereafter, he attended the University of Western Ontario where he obtained his Bachelor of Laws in 2001.  During his studies, Michael undertook two educational internships with Flaherty Dow Elliott & McCarthy (1997 and 1999) before working as a summer student in 1999.  In 2000, Michael served a term as policy advisor to the Attorney General of Ontario during the Walkerton Water Crisis.

Upon completion of his formal studies in law, Michael completed his articles of clerkship in an acclaimed Toronto litigation boutique firm.  Thereafter, Michael returned to his hometown of Ottawa and participated in the opening of a now established Ottawa law firm which continues to specialize in insurance defence litigation.

Since commencing his practice, Michael has written in the areas of motor vehicle insurance law and healthcare law.  He also educates his clients on reducing liability through risk management techniques.  He has also been involved in the administration of the Bar Admission Course.

Michael joined Flaherty Dow Elliott & McCarthy in 2008 and participated in the founding of the Ottawa office which opened in March 2008.

Michael brings to Flaherty Dow Elliott & McCarthy a breadth of experience as trial counsel.  He is a certified mediator and has appeared before all levels of court in the Province of Ontario and many tribunals.  His practice involves mediations, trials (especially trials before juries), and arbitrations.

Michael practices in the areas of insurance defence litigation, including motor vehicle liability, products liability, property liability, and professional negligence for some of North America’s leading insurers.  His experience includes complex multi-party and multi-jurisdictional litigation.  He also is involved in personal injury litigation, employment litigation, and estate litigation.

Michael is a proud member of the Law Society of Upper Canada, the Ontario Bar Association, the Canadian Defence Lawyers Association, the County of Carleton Lawyers’ Association, the University of Western Ontario Alumni Association, and Carleton University Alumni Association.

In his spare time, Michael enjoys spending time with his family and friends, participating in activities of the Ottawa Bar, and enjoying the natural wonders of eastern Ontario.

(613) 565-1231
Michael.switzer@fdemlaw.com
Assistant: Lisa Tripp (613)-565-1231