1. Home
  2. Find a Lawyer
  3. Texas
  4. Austin
  5. Animal & Dog Bites
  6. Michael Ely

Michael Benjamin Ely

Animal and dog bites Attorney at Austin, TX

5.0   21 reviews
Message
  • State Years
    Texas - TX 9 years
    Florida - FL 13 years
    Dist. of Columbia - DC 17 years
    Maryland - MD 20 years
  • Licensed for 9 years
    State TX
    Acquired 2014
    Status
    Eligible to Practice in Texas No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 13 years
    State FL
    Acquired 2010
    Status
    Member in Good Standing No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 17 years
    State DC
    Acquired 2005
    Status
    Good Standing No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 20 years
    State MD
    Acquired 2002
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Helped me when no one else would.
Anthony
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired Attorney
Great Job
Pravalika
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired Attorney
Read more reviews

About Michael

Learn Michael’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Animal and dog bites
    20%

  2. Aviation
    20%
    Representation of individuals injured or killed in aviation accidents, including fixed wing and rotorcraft.

    21 years, 25 cases

  3. Car accident
    20%
    Representation of individuals injured in automobile accidents including taxis, personal vehicles, company vehicles, tractor trailer accidents and pedestrian accidents.

    21 years, 300 cases

  4. Personal injury
    20%
    Representation of individuals injured in automobile accidents, trucking accidents, slip and falls, dog bites, gas explosions, products liability and aviation accidents.

    21 years, 300 cases

  5. Wrongful death
    20%
    Representation of individuals killed in accidents, including bus crashes, truck crashes, aviation accidents, automobile accidents.

    21 years, 30 cases

Attorney Michael Ely received his undergraduate degree in 1999 from Harding University. While incollege, Michael Ely worked as a White House intern under President Clinton and as a congressional intern with Congressman Vic Snyder’s office. Michael Ely received his law degree in 2002 from George Washington University located in Washington, DC. While in law school, Mr. Ely worked for the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission as a legal intern. 

 

After graduating law school, Attorney Ely practiced law with the law firm R. Jack Clapp & Associates in Washington, DC, where he specialized in wrongful death and aviation cases. After three years as an associate with that firm, he became a partner in the law firm of Clapp, Desjardins and Ely, where he continued to practice Plaintiff’s personal injury and wrongful death law.

 

In August of 2009, Mr. Ely went to work for the law firm of Hassell, Moorhead & Carroll located in Daytona Beach, FL. While with that law firm, he concentrated his practice on insurance defense cases where he represented defendants for the first time, including the largest automobile insurance company in the United States.

 

Mr. Ely has been rated AV (the highest rating available) by Martindale Hubbell, who rates attorneys for legal ability and ethics. He has participated in 13 civil jury trials, including 9 cases in the past 4 years.

 

Michael Ely has litigated a variety of different cases for both Plaintiffs and Defendants, including:

 

• Aviation crash cases

 

• Gas Explosion cases

 

• FTCA cases (cases involving the United States government as a defendant)

 

• Dog bite cases

 

• Automobile accident cases

 

• Trucking accident cases, 

 

• Bus crash cases

 

• Property damage cases

 

• Wrongful death cases

 

• False imprisonment cases, 

 

• Products liability cases

 

• Dram shop cases

 

Further, Michael Ely’s legal presence has been a national one. He has litigated cases in 14 different states and a multitude of different Courts.

 

Michael Ely is licensed to practice in the following jurisdictions:

 

• Texas

 

• Florida

 

• Maryland 

 

• District of Columbia

 

• Military Court of Appeals

 

• United States Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit

 

• US District Court for the Northern District of Florida

 

• US District Court for the Southern District of Florida

 

• US District Court for the Middle District of Florida

 

• US District Court for the District of Maryland

 

• US District Court for the District of Colorado

 

• US District Court for the Northern District of Illinois

 

• US District Court for the Middle District of Illinois

 

• US District Court for the Southern District of Illinois 

Photos and videos

Photos and videos

Contact Michael

Ely & Reed
3410 Far West Blvd.
Suite 170
Austin, TX, 78731
Message Get Directions
Ely & Reed
602 N. Baird St.
Suite 200
Midland, TX, 79701
Message Get Directions
Ely & Reed, PLLC
1121 Native Garden Cove
Round Rock, TX, 78681
Message Get Directions
Ely & Reed, PLLC
5308 Richard Ave.
Dallas, TX, 75206
Message Get Directions
Hide locations

Reviews

Write A Review
5.0 / 5.0
  21 customer reviews
5 Star
 
100%
4 Star
 
0%
3 Star
 
0%
2 Star
 
0%
1 Star
 
0%
Posted by Anthony | May 3, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Helped me when no one else would.
Michael Ely was there for me for a personal injury case. He stood by my side from the start, and never gave up hope. He traveled over 300 miles just to meet with me for my hearings, and was an exceptional attorney. I would 100% recommend Ely & Reed to anyone needing an attorney to help them in their time of need.
Posted by Pravalika | April 28, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Job
I got rear ended while driving to work by a non-US driver who was driving a budget rental car with their insurance. It was a weird situation as the non-US driver wasn’t speaking much English and just gave his rental insurance number. For days together, they did not contact me back or returned my calls. These rental insurance are difficult to deal with. A friend suggested to contact Michael Ely and the way Mr Ely handled my case has been exceptional. I felt very comfortable after Michael took charge of my case. The case went slow but Michael & I were very patient and he had everything under control. He regularly updated me and I was so glad. He was responsive to my emails and always looked at the best interest of his client. Thanks a lot Michael.
Read less
Posted by Alyssa | August 4, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Don’t call anyone else!
I had the best possible experience working with Mike Ely that anyone can possible have when in a situation that an attorney is necessary. He was kind, compassionate, funny and made the situation as pleasant as it could possibly be. He is very knowledgeable about the legal process and was prompt, intentional and firm. I wouldn’t recommend even calling anyone else - this is the guy!
Read less
Posted by Grace | May 18, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Representation!
Michael Ely was the lead attorney for my car accident case. He was excellent in preparing me for deposition as well as trial. I very much apreciate his representation and I highly recommend his expertise in relevant legal matters. He has a somewhat dry sense of humor yet is approachable, empathetic and compassionate. He is a true professional and he and his partner are excellent, proactive and experienced litigators. I could not recommend him and his firm more highly.
Read less
Posted by Paul | May 18, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Michael Ely
Michael Ely has saved my family a ton of grief over the last year and still continues to do so. Consummate professional and savvy. The Ely and Reed team is definitely the one to trust.
Posted by Mariselda | May 11, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Attorney
He was so helpful! I was in a car accident where it was the other drivers fault and because someone other than me was driving, my gap insurance was refusing to pay. He helped me get this resolved very quickly. Very pleased with the outcome. Highly recommend.
Posted by anonymous | October 18, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Auto injury
Mr. Ely went above and beyond. Its not just a career or his profession. Mr. Ely really cares. Im very pleased to have met and to have had Mr.Ely take my case. Thank You Again.
Posted by Jeffrey | May 16, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Personal Injury
Michael recently represented me in a personal injury case. He adequately explained the process, gathered detailed information and succeeded in executing my settlement above my expectations. He's quite the pit bull that you need when dealing with legal matters. I highly recommend him if you need legal representation.
Posted by Carol | August 9, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best of the Best
Nick Reed and Mike Ely are a great team! They represented us in a dispute over a contract and I can honestly say that we have never been so well represented in a case as we were with Ely Reed. Nick and Mike are both very detailed in their approach and are excellent communicators – kept us up-to-date throughout the process. And - they bring such a positive energy to a legal matter that would otherwise be extremely frustrating. Obviously, we’d prefer not to have legal tangles in the future. Reality is – we likely will and Ely Reed will be representing us for sure!
Read less
Posted by anonymous | June 20, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Job
Tackled a tough situation and worked it out .
Posted by Shelley | January 13, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Shelley Bender
Michael was very efficient and kept me informed when there were any changes in my case. My case was finished quickly to my satisfaction.
Posted by Bethany | January 6, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great help
So thankful for the help from Mike Ely in my legal issue. He brought great comfort in an otherwise uncomfortable process.
Posted by Ashley | September 14, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
"I'll take over from here"
I was reluctant to hire an attorney after my daughter and I were involved in an auto accident. I thought it would be a simple process and something I could handle myself. I actually took two days off at work just to spend time on the phone getting bills taken care of and everything submitted. I was amazed by how hard the adjuster was making the situation for me. One phone call to Mike Ely put my mind at ease. In his words, "Ill take over from here" made me feel like I would finally be treated fairly and that someone was finally on my side. He took care of making sure all medical bills were paid by the insurance company and we also walked away with a settlement far above what I expected. He was great with follow-up, calling to let me know where we were at in the process. Always very friendly and approachable. I gained a new respect for this profession after trying to deal with all of the legalities myself. He knows what he is doing and I am so glad I let him handle my case!
Read less
Posted by Carla | June 24, 2015
Fantastic Lawyer
Michael, has been the absolute best there is. He has worked miracles and I would not only recommend him, you would be crazy not too. He is quick and gets things done fast, this case was settled within 3 months. Absolutely the best. He will stand and fight for what is right, he is very honest too!
Posted by Bethany | June 24, 2015
Excellent for client attorney
I've never needed an attorney before falling ill, and needing to fight a disability denial. Mike Ely has been very responsive, kind, knowledgable, and attentive to my questions and needs. I felt like I could lay all of my legal worry in his hands and breathe a sigh of relief, knowing he had my best interest at hand. Thank you, Mike!
Read less
Posted by Carla | May 24, 2015
Suprising Takover
Mr. Ely was assigned to me after my original lawyer was unable to handle my case due to unforeseen circumstances. When Mr. Ely took over the case I was so surprised on how fast he was able to get things processed. In less than two weeks of having the case a demand letter was sent out. I am very happy to say that not only would I recommend him to my peers. I would hire him for anything that might need an attorneys expertise. Thank you so much for your expedient assistance in my case... Mr. Ely has not only kept the communication line open, he responds ever so quickly (which is not something I was expecting from an attorney). He makes you feel at ease with the case and does absolutely keeps you informed on every step of the way, which is including but not limited to a copy of what was sent to the other party or requests for records and so on. Thank you again for taking this case..
Read less
Posted by Michelle | October 16, 2014
Far exceeded my expectations
I contacted Mr. Ely regarding child support modification. I needed help understanding the paperwork as well as the proper procedures I would need to take. Mr. Ely not only took the time to thoroughly explain the process but allowed me the time to ask my multitude of questions. He listened to my concerns and went out of his way to ensure my needs were being met. He was personally committed to my case during the entire negotiating process from beginning to end. Mr. Ely genuinely cares about his clients and builds a relationship of trust and commitment. I highly recommend Mr. Ely for representation on any legal matter.
Read less
Posted by Phil | October 16, 2014
The Incredible Michael Ely
Mr. Ely is the epitome of what every lawyer SHOULD be!! I was continuously kept informed and he was always available and very helpful resolving all of my legal matters.
Posted by Laurence | October 9, 2014
Exceptional Attorney
In my experience, Mike Ely is an exceptional attorney who is extremely professional, knowledgeable and ethical. Most importantly to me, he was able to achieve positive results in a timely manner.
Posted by Kevin | October 6, 2014
Excellent experience with lawyer
It was the first time that I needed a lawyer for an incident and always felt uncomfortable with the process, until I met Mike Ely. Mike from the beginning made me feel comfortable and right at home from the beginning to the end. He was always persistent, and always communicated with me with full details throughout the process. He was dependable, direct, and worked hard to make sure that I was always satisfied throughout my case. Mike's personable attitude also made me feel comfortable with him as I know I can totally trust him.
Read less
View all reviews
View less reviews

Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 30 minutes
  • Contingency 40%-40%
Payment methods
Cash, Check

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Partner
  • Ely & Reed
  • 2014 - Present
  • Attorney
  • Hassell, Moorhead & Carroll
  • 2009 - 2014
  • Partner
  • Clapp, Desjardins & Ely
  • 2005 - 2009
  • Attorney
  • R. Jack Clapp & Associates
  • 2002 - 2005
View all work experience

Education

  • George Washington University National Law Center
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2002
  • Harding University
  • B.A.
  • 1999

Legal Cases

  • Aviation crash
  • Settled for $2,000,000
  • Bus Crash
  • $2,700,000
  • Gas explosion
  • Settled globally for $1,700,000
View all legal cases

Associations

  • Texas Bar Association
  • 2014 - Present
  • American Bar Association
  • 2014 - Present
  • Texas Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2014 - Present
  • Capital Area Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2014 - Present
  • Florida Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2012 - Present
  • Florida Bar Association
  • 2010 - Present
  • District of Columbia Bar Association
  • 2005 - Present
  • Maryland Bar Association
  • 2002 - Present
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Rising Star Texas
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2015
  • Rising Star
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2014
  • Verdicts Hall of Fame
  • Daily Report
  • 2014
  • AV Peer Review Rating
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2013
View all awards

Publications

Attorney endorsements

Received (12)
Given (15)
Endorse Michael
Aaron John von Flatern headshot
Aaron von Flatern
Personal injury Attorney | Oct 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Michael is a no-nonsense lawyer who zealously advocates for his injured clients. His success in trial speaks for itself. It is obvious he loves the law. I endorse Michael as a lawyer and as a person."
William Ashby Underhill headshot
William Underhill
Litigation Attorney | May 14
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse this lawyer. I had the pleasure to work with Mr. Ely in Florida. He has exceptional trial skills."
Adam Gruder Wasch headshot
Adam Wasch
Aviation Attorney | Feb 16
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I have worked with Michael on a few matters involving aviation law, and I highly endorse him. Mike is a very strong litigator. I have sent him clients for disputes in Texas and will continue to do so."
Cynthia B Beissel headshot
Cynthia Beissel
Personal injury Attorney | Oct 01
Relationship: Co-worker
"Mike Ely is a zealous advocate for his clients. I had the pleasure of working with him for over a year. He is always prepared and has extensive knowledge of the facts of every case. His knowledge and experience as a litigator is evident in the courtroom. I strongly endorse Mr. Ely."
Samuel Lee Sanders headshot
Samuel Sanders
Personal injury Attorney | Sep 30
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Mike is a phenomenal trial attorney with a wealth of litigation experience. I know him to be a zealous advocate who aggressively pursues his clients' interests. He is highly recommended."
Mark Anthony Matovina headshot
Mark Matovina
Personal injury Attorney | Sep 25
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I had Mr. Ely as opposing counsel on a personal injury matter. Mr. Ely was well prepared, professional, and experienced as a personal injury attorney. He has excellent trial skills and presence with the jury."
Shea Eric Baggett headshot
Shea Baggett
Personal injury Attorney | Sep 19
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Exceptional lawyer. Mike is an extremely knowledgeable trial attorney and a fierce advocate for his clients. His skills as a personal injury attorney are unsurpassed."
Tonya Drake headshot
Tonya Drake
Unknown Attorney | Sep 19
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Mr. Ely is an extremely intelligent attorney who always seems to be two or three steps ahead of the opposing party. Mr. Ely is an extremely hard working attorney who works tirelessly to advocate for his clients. He takes great pride in helping his clients achieve results they deserve/desire. I strongly endorse Mr. Ely and have no hesitation in recommending him to others."
Kelleen L. Duncan-Neisler headshot
Kelleen Duncan-Neisler
Car accident Attorney | Sep 19
Relationship: Other
"Michael Ely is one of the most professional attorneys I have ever met as an opposing counsel. Michael is an extremely intelligent and gifted attorney, and it shows in the courtroom. It's a honor knowing him and I completely endorse him."
Nicholas Reed headshot
Nicholas Reed
Personal injury Attorney | Sep 19
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse this lawyer."
Alfred Washington headshot
Alfred Washington
Personal injury Attorney | Sep 19
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Ely is an outstanding attorney and hard worker. I would definitely recommend him to family and friends."
Robert Hernandez Jr. headshot
Robert Hernandez
Personal injury Attorney | Mar 18
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I have worked with Michael on several matters and he is one of the hardest working and thorough attorneys I have ever met. Michael has worked on the plaintiff's side and the defense side of personal injury and he knows the law and process better than almost anyone. He has fought the insurance companies as a plaintiff's attorney all the way to jury trials getting some of the best results I have ever heard of. If you are injured you can't do better than Michael Ely!"
View more endorsements
Adam Gruder Wasch headshot
Adam Wasch
Aviation
Kelleen L. Duncan-Neisler headshot
Kelleen Duncan-Neisler
Personal injury
Cynthia B Beissel headshot
Cynthia Beissel
Appeals
Nicholas Reed headshot
Nicholas Reed
Personal injury
Tonya Drake headshot
Tonya Drake
Intellectual property
Douglas Peter Desjardins headshot
Douglas Desjardins
Personal injury
Samuel Lee Sanders headshot
Samuel Sanders
Personal injury
Aaron David Delgado headshot
Aaron Delgado
Personal injury
Matthew Evan Romanik headshot
Matthew Romanik
Personal injury
James O Cunningham headshot
James Cunningham
Personal injury
Susan Wanda Tolbert headshot
Susan Tolbert
Personal injury
Steven Thomas Vasilaros headshot
Steven Vasilaros
Personal injury
Mark Anthony Matovina headshot
Mark Matovina
Personal injury
Robert Hernandez Jr. headshot
Robert Hernandez
Personal injury
Shea Eric Baggett headshot
Shea Baggett
Personal injury
Austin Animal and dog bites Lawyer Michael Benjamin Ely
Michael Benjamin Ely
Animal and dog bites Attorney
Austin, TX
Licensed for 20 years
Free Consultation
Message