Michael Alfera is a senior associate in Munck Wilson Mandala’s litigation practice, known for developing winning, results-oriented case strategies in complex commercial disputes. A standout from the start, he graduated summa cum laude from law school and was a member of the championship team at the 2018 Wagner Labor and Employment Law National Moot Court Competition in New York City.

Today, Michael pairs sharp legal analysis with strategic execution, representing both plaintiffs and defendants in high-stakes business and commercial litigation in state and federal courts. He is trusted by clients to distill complexity into clear, persuasive arguments and narratives that move decision-makers. His disciplined, detail-driven approach positions him to navigate sophisticated disputes efficiently and deliver meaningful results.

A recognized thought leader, Michael regularly presents CLEs on legal writing and litigation strategy, equipping other attorneys with the tools to elevate their advocacy. In April 2025, he took the stage at TEDxSouthwestern, where he explored the evolving impact of artificial intelligence on the legal profession.

Michael earned his JD from Southwestern Law School and his BA in music from the University of Southern California. Outside the courtroom, he is a classically trained pianist, composer, and conductor. He is also the founder of The L.A. Choral Lab, a 501(c)(3) performing arts nonprofit dedicated to advancing the modern choral art form.

  • First-chaired two bench trials, including a commercial unlawful detainer trial, obtaining complete victory for clients in both cases.
  • Co-chaired federal jury trial on a hotly contested trademark dispute, securing a $1.4 million jury verdict for client and defeating all counterclaims.
  • Second-chaired California state trial of a business partnership dispute, securing a $2.7 million jury verdict that included significant punitive damages.
  • Conducted four depositions in highly contested breach of fiduciary duty/defamation case and cross-examined same four deponents/witnesses at arbitration hearing, obtaining express finding from Arbitrator that key witness was “not credible.”
  • Served as judicial law clerk in California state court and federal court, providing research and draft work product on hundreds of cases.

  • Business Litigation & Alter Ego Liability: Practical Tips for Business Owners, Webinar Presenter via myLawCLE (12/13/24)
  • Ten Tips to Transform Your Legal Writing, CLE Webinar Presenter via Southwestern Law School Inn of Court (2/5/25)
  • Strategies for Powerful Legal Writing: From Introduction to Conclusion, CLE Webinar Presenter via myLawCLE (3/7/25)
  • Beyond Billables: How Tech is Transforming Legal Work, Speaker at TEDxSouthwestern (4/2/25), https://youtu.be/-xOAMzAGz5U
  • The Lawyer’s Guide to Impactful Writing, CLE Webinar Presenter via Justia (7/25/25)

Southwestern Law School, JD, 2018

summa cum laude

University of Southern California, BA, 2009

Music

magna cum laude

  • Executive Committee Member and Barrister of the Southwestern Law School Chapter of the American Inns of Court
  • Executive Committee Member of the Association of Business Trial Lawyers (ABTL) Young Lawyers’ Division

California

U.S. District Court for the Central District of California

U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California