Michael McGrory

Mike has a unique ability to stay focused and even-keeled even when it may look to some like the sky is falling. He takes a thoughtful and direct approach to advising clients in the areas of aviation and aerospace law, commercial litigation, regulatory compliance, and the cannabis field.

Since entering private practice after serving as a Cook County Assistant State’s Attorney, Mike has represented airlines, airports, aircraft owners and manufacturers in business disputes and lawsuits arising out of accidents. His non-aviation work involves advising businesses, governmental entities, insurers and insurance brokers in commercial and tort litigation. Having grown up in a police family, Mike is especially proud of his successes defending police officers accused of civil rights violations.

Mike founded the firm’s cannabis practice in 2013 with the advent of Illinois’ medical cannabis program, and continues to serve as co-chair, providing counsel to all variety of businesses operating in the cannabis industry.  

Mike has held a variety of leadership positions in bar and industry organizations, and has also demonstrated great commitment to his community. He is particularly passionate about his work on the board of directors for Mental Health America of Illinois, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving treatment and care available to those who suffer from mental and emotional disorders.

• Recognized as "40 Illinois Attorney Under 40 to Watch" by the Law Bulletin in 2014
• Selected to the Illinois Super Lawyers List: 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021
• Selected to the Illinois Super Lawyers "Rising Stars" List: 2015, 2016

• Director-Elect, Attorney Division: Aviation Insurance Association
• Member: Federal Trial Bar; Chicago Bar Association; Education Committee and Content Committee; Loyola Academy Bar Association; Illinois Cannabis Bar Association; Illinois Women in Cannabis 
• Chair: Chicago Bar Association, Aviation Law Committee, 2014-2015
• Defense Research Institute: Aviation Law Committee Program Chair (current); Aviation Law Committee Publications Chair 2013-2015; Aviation Law Committee Membership Chair, 2012-2013; Aviation Law Committee Expert Witness Chair, 2011-2012
• Commissioner: Village of Homewood Board of Fire and Police Commissioners, 2009-2014
• Commissioner: Village of Homewood Community Relations Commission, 2008-2009
• Board of Directors: Mental Health America of Illinois
• Homewood-Flossmoor Soccer Club, Coach