For more than 25 years, Michael S. Kraut has represented banks and other financial institutions in defense of large high-risk, high-profile complex securities and commercial class actions and other litigation involving securitization issues and breach of contract, fiduciary duty, and consumer protection claims. Michael also defends clients in government enforcement actions and counsels clients on sensitive internal investigations and a range of regulatory and compliance issues.
Michael is rated for commercial litigation by Chambers USA, which notes that he “thinks deeply and effectively about complex matters. He is thorough, committed and really gifted at protecting and advancing his clients’ interests.” The Legal 500 described Michael as “creative, thoughtful, and knowledgeable” and recognized that he is noted for his “knowledge of changing trustee practices based on industry developments and case law evolution.”
Michael is a member of the firm’s Advisory Board and a member of the firm’s Diversity and Inclusion Committee. In recent years, Michael also served as a deputy practice group leader for the firm’s litigation practice, a co-leader of the firm’s banking industry team, and the leader of the New York office’s litigation practice.
Client Service All-Star, BTI Consulting Group (2020)
Ranked, Litigation: General Commercial, New York, Chambers USA (2020–2024)
Recommended, Dispute resolution: Financial services: litigation, The Legal 500 US (2015–2024)
Recommended, Dispute resolution: General commercial disputes, The Legal 500 US (2018–2020, 2022, 2023)
Recommended, Dispute resolution: Securities litigation: defense, The Legal 500 US (2018)
Recommended, Securities Shareholder Litigation, The Legal 500 US (2015–2016)
Recognized, New York Super Lawyers (2013–2024)
Rising Star, New York Super Lawyers (2011–2012)
Member, Law Firm of the Year, Securities Regulation, US News/Best Lawyers – Best Law Firms (2019)
Member, American Bar Association
Member, Structured Finance Litigation Committee, American Bar Association
Member, Securitization and Structured Finance Committee, American Bar Association
Member, Trust Indentures and Indenture Trustee Committee, American Bar Association