Michael Valen Biography
Michael J. Valen is a seasoned trial attorney with more than 30 years of courtroom experience, specializing in personal injury and wrongful death litigation. Throughout his career, Michael has built a reputation for his extensive trial experience, strategic approach to complex litigation, and commitment to fighting for individuals and families who have suffered serious injuries due to the negligence of others.
Having served as both lead and second-chair counsel in dozens of jury trials, Michael brings a wealth of courtroom knowledge to Jurewitz Law Group Injury & Accident Lawyers. His impressive track record includes contributing to multiple multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements, including serving on a trial team that secured more than $150 million in combined results. He has successfully handled cases involving catastrophic injuries, motor vehicle accidents, wrongful death, product liability, and premises liability.
Michael’s experience extends well beyond the courtroom. He has managed hundreds of complex litigation matters, argued appellate cases, and mentored fellow attorneys. At one firm, he generated an average of more than $2 million in annual attorney fees, demonstrating his ability to successfully navigate high-stakes litigation. His extensive experience in jury selection, trial preparation, and settlement negotiations makes him a valuable advocate for clients facing difficult legal battles.
Before beginning his legal career, Michael served as a Naval Aviator, flying the F-14 Tomcat and serving as a flight instructor with Fighter Squadron Fourteen aboard the USS John F. Kennedy and at Naval Air Station Pensacola. His military background helped shape the discipline, preparation, and ability to perform under pressure that he brings to his legal practice today.
Michael earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Florida College of Law after attending St. Olaf College in Minnesota. He is admitted to practice law in Florida and the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida. He is also a member of the Tampa Bay Trial Lawyers Association and the Florida Justice Association.
With decades of trial experience and a career dedicated to advocating for injured individuals, Michael understands what is at stake for his clients. At Jurewitz Law Group, he brings the experience, determination, and courtroom readiness necessary to take on powerful insurance companies and fight for the compensation his clients deserve.
Education
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) – University of Florida College of Law, 1993
- St. Olaf College – Northfield, Minnesota, 1982
Courts Admitted
- Florida State Courts
- United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida
Professional Associations
- Tampa Bay Trial Lawyers Association
- Florida Justice Association – Eagle Member
Publications
- Co-author, Current Review of Workers’ Compensation Reform in Florida, Florida State University Law Review, Vol. 21, pp. 501–527 (1993)
Military Service
- United States Navy, 1982–1990
- Naval Aviator – F-14 Tomcat
- Flight Instructor
- Fighter Squadron Fourteen, USS John F. Kennedy / Naval Air Station Pensacola
Practice Areas
- Personal Injury
- Wrongful Death
- Catastrophic Injury
- Car Accidents
- Product Liability
- Premises Liability