Michael G. "Mike" Abelow

Mike focuses his practice on the intersection of business litigation and business bankruptcy. He is able to not only obtain a judgment, but also take steps to ensure that the judgment is “worth the paper it is written on,” by preventing efforts to dissipate assets. On the other side of the equation, he advises companies and individuals who are defending litigation who are simultaneously exploring their bankruptcy options. This confluence of business disputes and ability-to-pay issues includes advice and litigation concerning fraudulent transfers, preference claims, alter ego claims, veil piercing, and lender liability.

In bankruptcy court, Mike represents lenders and debtors in Chapter 11 business cases. He is a Chapter 11, SubChapter V Trustee, appointed by the United States Trustee’s office. He was recently appointed as a Chapter 7 Trustee, where he will bring his litigation skills to bear for the benefit of creditors.

In federal district court and in state trial courts, Mike litigates all types of business disputes, with a particular focus on breach of contract, business torts, lender liability, receivership, and real estate disputes.

After a judicial clerkship on the Second Circuit Court of Appeals in New York, Mike began his career as a business litigator in Washington, D.C., before moving to Nashville in 2007. Mike is the former President of the Nashville Bar Association, former Board Chair of the Tennessee Justice Center, and is currently Vice President of the Nashville Urban Debate League, a non-profit that brings the proven academic benefits of debate to Metropolitan Nashville public high school students.

Mike has been recognized by the Nashville Business Journal as a Best of the Bar honoree in 2016, 2018, and 2021 – 2024. He has been recognized by the Tennessee Bar Association and the Tennessee Justice Center as their pro bono attorney of the year.

Mike and his wife Cynthia live in Nashville and have four children. When not serving his clients, Mike enjoys pickleball and raising chickens and bees.