Rudolph Clarke, LLC is proud to announce Firm Partner Michael L. Barbiero invited to join the National Trial Lawyers Top 100!
The National Trial Lawyers Top 100 is an invitation-only organization comprised of the premier trial lawyers from each state or region who meet stringent qualifications as civil plaintiff and/or criminal defense trial lawyers.
Selection to the National Trial Lawyers Top 100 is based on a thorough multi-phase objective and uniformly applied process which includes peer nominations combined with third-party research. Membership is extended only to the select few of the most qualified attorneys from each state or region who demonstrate superior qualifications of leadership, reputation, influence, stature, and public profile measured by objective and uniformly applied standards. Each distinguished member of the Top 100 possesses the skill, knowledge, experience, and success held by only the best and finest lawyers in the United States.
CONGRATULATIONS TO MICHAEL ON THIS WELL DESERVED HONOR!
MICHAEL’S BACKGROUND, EXPERIENCE AND CLIENT REVIEWS
Michael is an experienced, well-respected litigator and trial attorney.
He concentrates his practice in litigation, specifically personal injury matters including wrongful death and catastrophic injury, as well as a wide range of complex municipal matters. He also currently serves as the Solicitor to the Montgomery County Controller.
Born in lower Bucks County, Bristol, Pa, Michael learned to value both hard work and education from his mother, who taught at Pennsbury for 40 years and his father who was a laborer and roofer. Michael’s father immigrated here from Calabria, Italy, where most of his relatives still live in a small southern town named Pedivigliano. Clients benefit from his perfect mix of real-world and legal experience. Prior to returning to school for law, Michael worked for several years with troubled teens in and around Philadelphia. Helping families at their darkest times inspired him to return to school to become an attorney.
Following a two year clerkship with the esteemed President Judge Alex Bonavitacola, Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas, Michael defended businesses, insurance companies and municipalities. He argued before the Delaware Supreme Court (making new law on indemnification), as well as the Federal Courts under zoning and land use statutes representing local townships/zoning boards. This experience directly benefits the clients he now represents, because he has been on “both sides of the fence” and understands how insurance companies, municipalities and their attorneys review and handle matters.
Michael has since spent over 20 years focusing on litigation, 8 of those years litigating high profile matters and representing catastrophically injured victims while employed at one of the largest personal injury firms in Pennsylvania, the renowned Anapol Schwartz in Philadelphia.
Lawyers across Pennsylvania rely on a 
book that Michael co-authored, “Library of Pennsylvania Personal Injury Forms.”
Michael has litigated in nearly every county in Pennsylvania, and obtained multiple seven figure verdicts and settlements, (including the 2011 PA Top Jury Verdicts, #11, Legal Intelligencer).
SOLICITORSHIPS/APPOINTMENTS
2019, June – 2022, June: Re-Appointed to serve 3 year term as Hearing Committee Member Disciplinary Board of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania
2016, September – Present: Appointed by the Court of Common Pleas of Montgomery County to be a Master for the Tax Assessment Appeal Mediation Program.
2016 – Present: Solicitor to the Montgomery County Controller’s Office
2016 – 2019: Michael received the distinguished appointment as a Hearing Committee Member serving the Disciplinary Board of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania.
2013 – 2016: Solicitor to the Montgomery County Prothonotary’s Office
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WHAT DO CLIENTS SAY?
“I was treated like family. I would recommend them…, they are wonderful people.”
Click to hear about Carol’s experience with Rudolph Clarke, LL
CLERKSHIPS / EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
1998-2000: Law Clerk to Hon. Alex Bonavitacola, President Judge Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas
1995-1998: Widener University School of Law
1996: Phi Delta Phi, Harrington Inn, Honor Chapter April, 1996
1996: Moot Court Honor Society, Inducted Sept., 1996
1995: Temple Law International program, Rome, Italy
1988-1992: Pennsylvania State University, BA
VOLUNTEER WORK
2016 – Present: Attorney Volunteer: Montgomery Child Advocacy Project (MCAP)
2017 – Present: Board Member of Turn Pa Blue. Concentrating on four county areas surrounding Philadelphia
2016 – Present: Board Member, LGBT Equality Alliance, Chester County, PA…
2014 – Present: Montgomery County Bar Association:
– Liberty & Law Civics Education (teaching civics in Norristown Area School District)
– Bench/Bar Committee
– Civil Rules Committee
– Trial Lawyers Committee
2016 – Present: Executive Board Member, Montgomery County Democratic Committee
2015 – Present: Wills 4 Heroes, Pennsylvania
2009 – Present: Abington-Rockledge Democratic Committee Chairman
May, 2006 – May, 2012: Youth Aid Panel, Jenkintown, Montgomery County, PA,
August, 2006 – 2008 (full term): Abington Industrial Development Authority, Abington, PA;
July, 2006 – 2008: Town Watch, North Hills, Montgomery County, PA; Volunteer,
Jan. 2007 – Jan. 2009: Abington Rockledge Democratic Committee; Vice Chair
AWARDS/RECOGNITION
2020-2024 Pennsylvania Super Lawyers list (Super Lawyers is a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high-degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The patented selection process includes independent research, peer nominations and peer evaluations).
SuperLawyers.com
2021: Rudolph Clarke, LLC Named to “Expertise.com” Best Personal Injury Attorneys in Philadelphia List
2 Years in a Row! Rudolph Clarke, LLC Named to “Expertise.com” Best Personal Injury Attorneys in Philadelphia List
2021: “Best Personal Injury Trial Attorney (Pennsylvania) Michael L. Barbiero” Legal Elite
2020: Rudolph Clarke, LLC Named to “Expertise.com” Best Personal Injury Attorneys in Philadelphia List (https://personalinjury.rudolphclarke.com/rudolph-clarke-llc-named-to-expertise-best-personal-injury-attorneys-in-philadelphia-list/)
2020 Pennsylvania Super Lawyers list (Super Lawyers is a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high-degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The patented selection process includes independent research, peer nominations and peer evaluations). SuperLawyers.com
2019: The National Trial Lawyers: Top 100 National Trial Lawyers
2019: Legal Elite: Top Litigation Firm – Bucks County US Business News Legal Elite: Top Litigation Firm – Bucks County.
2019: Top Lawyers American Society of Legal Advocates 2019
2017: Michael was selected by the American Society of Legal Advocates as a “Top 100 Litigation Lawyer in the State of Pennsylvania,” an invitation-only nationwide organization of elite lawyers who combine stellar legal credentials with proven commitment to community engagement and the highest professional standards. Selection limited to less than 1.5% of all lawyers based on an array of criteria.
2015: Michael was inducted into the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates forum, one of the most prestigious groups of trial lawyers in the United States. Membership is limited to attorneys who have won multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements. Fewer than 1% of U.S. lawyers are members.
2013: Michael was invited to join Top Lawyers by the National Trial Lawyers,
2011: invited to join the Million Dollar Advocates Forum.
2008: Super Lawyers: Rising Star Super Lawyers: Philadelphia Magazine 2008 Pennsylvania Rising Star, Philadelphia Magazine (named a Pennsylvania “Rising Star – Super Lawyer,” Dec., 2008, Philadelphia magazine, top 2.5 percent of attorneys 40 years old or younger in Pa.)
2008: Democrat of the Year Abington Rockledge Democratic Committee 2008 Democrat of the Year
2008: Executes and Professionals Cambridge Who’s Who Cambridge Who’s Who Among Executives and Professionals
2007: Michael was appointed to the Advisory Panel of the American Bar Association.
2006: Listed Continental Who’s Who Registry, 2006 Continental Who’s Who Registry, 2006
1999: Who’s Who: American Law Students, 18th Edition, Spring 1999 Who’s Who: American Law Students, 18th Edition,
VERDICTS/SETTLEMENTS
3.85 Million dollar global settlement; Breon/Phillips vs. RE Crawford; Allegheny County
450,000 settlement. (Golf resort case, negligent design of bridge and alcohol service)
1.95 million, Automobile, Limited Tort (2011 PA Top Jury Verdicts, #11, Legal Intelligencer
1.9 million Automobile (Philadelphia)
4 million Tillison v. Roberts, Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas, Co-counsel
1.5 million dollar confidential settlement, PhiladelphiaCCP,co-counsel, medical malpractice..
750 Thousand settlement, products/negligence case, Lancaster Count
1.7 million settlement; Philadelphia CCP: conveyor belt / crushing injury resulting in death
1.75 million confidential settlement, Auto / ostensible agency, Philadelphia Court of Common P
850,000 dollar confidential settlement, Philadelphia CCPco-counsel, ostensible agency
9 million settlement, Philadelphia CCP; for a child whose hand was amputated
2.2 million dollar confidential settlement, Philadelphia CCP, co-counsel, drowning death of 11year old child
1.4 million dollar confidential settlement, Philadelphia CCP, co-counsel
IN THE COMMUNITY…
Michael volunteers with the Montgomery Child Advocacy Project (MCAP), a program providing free legal assistance and social service advocacy to abused and neglected children in Montgomery County.
Michael also volunteers in the Liberty & Law Civics Education Program which provides legal and civics education to middle schools in Norristown.
In March, 2016, Michael was invited to join as a Board Member to the LGBT Equality Alliance, Chester County, PA: LGBT Equality Alliance is a non-profit organization in Chester County, working to create and sustain a safe and supportive environment for the Chester County LGBTQA community. Fund raising efforts go to fund future social and educational events, LGBTQA support groups, local GSA clubs, school district education programs, and student scholarships.
Michael also serves on the executive committee of the Montgomery Democratic Committee and he is the Chairman of the Abington-Rockledge Democratic Committee. In 2008, the Committee honored him with the Democrat of the Year Award.
Michael has volunteered as a Mentor through Widener University, Philadelphia Trial Lawyers Diversity Program and served the Advisory Panel to the American Bar Association. He has volunteered as Youth Aid Panel Member, soccer and baseball coach, and for Town Watch. He was appointed to the Abington Industrial Development Authority (Aug, 2006 to Dec 2008) and also served frequently as a Certified Arbitrator, Philadelphia Common Pleas Court.
Mr. Barbiero is a member of the American, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Bucks, Montgomery and Philadelphia Bar Associations, as well as the Pennsylvania and Philadelphia Trial Lawyers Associations. He is also a member of the Justinian Society of Lawyers.
As a member of the Montgomery County Bar Association, Michael actively participates in Bench Bar, Civil Practice Manual and Rules of Civil Court Committees as well as the Trial Lawyers Section.
Mr. Barbiero earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Pennsylvania State University. He received his law degree from Widener University School of Law and studied law in Rome, Italy through Temple Law International program. He was inducted into the Moot Court Honor Society and Phi Delta Phi, Harrington Inn, Honor Chapter, as well as named in Who’s Who, American Law Students, 18th Edition, 1999; Continental Who’s Who 2006-07; and the Cambridge Who’s Who 2008/2009 Registry.
Since 2015, Firm Partner, Michael Barbiero, has served as a Board member and legal advisor to the LGBT Equality Alliance of Chester County. Over the last year, Board President, Julie Mesaros, firm Associate, Sara Johnson Rothman, and Michael have worked on and met with local municipalities to educate and advocate for the passing of Human Relations Boards and Non-Discrimination Ordinances to extend protection from discrimination to the LGBTQA community. They have also had the honor of meeting with the Chester County Commissioners, as well as the full Executive Board of the Chester County Association of Township Officials.
Featured Settlements
Michael has obtained many impressive results for his clients,
including the following:
- $9 million settlement, bus/truck accident
- $4 million verdict, daycare death
- $2.2 million settlement, drowning death
- $1.95 million, auto, Limited Tort (2011 PA Top Jury Verdicts, #11, Legal Intelligencer)
- $1.75 million settlement, auto / ostensible agency
- $1.5 million settlement, medical malpractice
- $1.4 million settlement, premises liability
- $900,000 settlement, electrocution
- $900,000 settlement, worksite/construction
- $872,500 settlement, accident victim, Bucks County
- $850,000 settlement, medical transport
- $750,000 settlement, products/negligence case, Lancaster County
- $400,000 Verdict and Argued before the Delaware Supreme Court (issue of first impression on borrowed servant, http://www.leagle.com/decision/2003959829A2d130_1958)
The total experience and outcome was very positive. We received over a 30% decrease in our property tax assessment in a very reasonable time and throughout the process Alex was very professional, responsive, supportive, knowledgeable and available. “We would definitely recommend Alex’s services to others and would retain him again in the future.”
“Rudolph Clarke delivers in record time on one of the largest projects of its kind in PennDOT history!” Click here for video from the groundbreaking ceremony.
I was extremely satisfied with the representation by Michael Barbiero and Rudolph Clarke. Everything was GREAT. Michael really fought for me and looked out for my family. Every time I called everyone as so nice! Personal Injury Client – Morrisville, PA
I have worked with this firm for over 10 years. Within this time, the firm has consistently proved itself to be very knowledgeable and professional. They present an obvious and genuine concern for our legal and ethical well being by being readily accessible at all hours of the day with frank responses to a wide array of questions. As an enforcement agency, it gives us the ability to perform our duties more effectively and to move forward with confidence knowing we are well advised.
Michael & Erin were excellent. If I need help in the future, I will definitely call Michael again. Recent Personal Injury Client
I just wanted to say how comfortable you [both] made me feel in handling my case. You demonstrated the confidence I needed that justice would prevail and made it happen. Peter (Personal Injury Client)
Overall, I was extremely satisfied with Rudolph Clarke, LLC. They were very knowledgeable, they listened and understood my needs and were always accessible. The attorney, Michael Barbiero, and paralegal, Barb McALeese kept me involved and up to date on the status of my case for myself and my young daughter. I give them all 10s and will recommend them to family, friends or colleagues. Deirdre (recent personal injury client)
”My counsel exceeded my expectations and did everything they could to get me the settlement they felt I deserved. I was extremely satisfied.”
“I highly recommend Mike Barbiero. I have worked with Mike on various cases. He is very knowledgeable, service oriented and gets great results.” Beth Stern Fleming, referral attorney.
“I am 110% pleased with the service I received from Michael Barbiero and Barbara McAleese. The fact that both were just a phone call away pleased me very much. In my experience in dealing with other attorneys this is a rare quality. Thank you Michael and Barbara!” Beth A. Smith, Personal Injury Client
I could not have asked for better representation! Alex and Valentina were professional and sharp they made me feel comfortable and explained everything that I was going to expect. I felt I was in good hands, what a great team they make! I was impressed and proud that they were representing me. It’s been a pleasure working with all of you and I will certainly recommend your services to anyone I know that is seeking legal assistance in the future. Thank you so much! Janet
Click to hear about Carol’s experience with Rudolph Clarke, LLC “I was treated like family. I would recommend them…, they are wonderful people.”
“Good morning Mike, my wife and I would like to thank you and your associates for all your hard work in getting us the settlement. Happy Holidays to you and your family.” Les (recent Personal Injury client)
Everyone involved in my case was extremely helpful and arranged for my schedule to help lessen the stress of this time. I would absolutely recommend Rudolph Clarke to a friend or colleague. Rita, LPN (recent Personal Injury client)
“Courteous, kind and professional in all aspects.” -Beth
Michael & Erin were excellent. If I need help in the future, I will call Michael again.
I was extremely satisfied with the representation by Michael Barbiero and Rudolph Clarke. Everything was GREAT. Michael really fought for me and looked out for my family. Every time I called everyone as so nice!
I just wanted to say how comfortable you [both] made me feel in handling my case. You demonstrated the confidence I needed that justice would prevail and made it happen.
I highly recommend Michael Barbiero to anyone who has had an accident and needs great representation. From the day I first met with Michael, I felt a sense of comfort with him. He displayed a genuine concern for my well-being and doing all that he could to help me.
I was recommended to Rudolph Clarke by the Bucks County Bar Association. I had been represented by another firm prior to Rudolph Clarke and the representation was horrible. If you need an attorney that knows what they are doing, I would highly, highly recommend Lauren Gallagher and her lovely staff at Rudolph Clarke.
I endorse this lawyer. I have known Michael from cases we were involved in together. He is knowledgeable, professional and thorough. I am considerably older than Michael, and I do not suffer younger lawyers lightly as a rule. He gets it.
In May of 2014 I had the privilege to start working with Alex Glassman. Since that time frame I have been very impressed with his professionalism, knowledge, and willingness to help. It has been a pleasure to work with Alex. He has always taken the time needed for my Son and I to understand the process and the actions needed. His patience and cooperation has been fantastic. He continues to go above and beyond to help my son. I would certainly recommend to anyone who would need his services.
[This team] exemplified the ultimate level of professionalism, legal knowledge and emphysema for both the client and family members at all times. We appreciate the time and effort they put into our case and are extremely grateful to have had attorneys like them in our corner.
To learn more about how a personal injury attorney from the Rudolph Clarke can help you with your personal injury case, contact Michael Barbiero at mbarbiero@rudolphclarke.com, or (215) 633-1890.
