Partner Michael P. Canty has been named one of just 10 attorneys selected as a 2026 “Titan of the Plaintiffs Bar” by Law360, a prestigious recognition honoring plaintiffs’ attorneys who have secured significant recoveries in high-stakes litigation and demonstrated exceptional leadership within the plaintiffs’ bar.
In addition to serving as the Firm’s General Counsel and a member of its Executive Committee, Michael leads one of the Firm’s securities litigation teams and co-leads the Consumer Protection and Data Privacy Rights Litigation Practice. Throughout his career, he has achieved significant victories advancing investor and consumer rights. In its profile, Law360 highlighted several of Michael’s recent successes, including settlements against Estée Lauder ($210 million, pending final court approval), Fidelity National Information Services ($210 million, pending final court approval), and PG&E ($100 million, pending final court approval), among others. Law360 also recognized Michael’s role as lead trial counsel in securing a historic, unanimous jury verdict against Meta Platforms Inc. for its role in the unauthorized collection and commercial use of highly personal health data entered into the Flo Health app
Reflecting on his career, Michael credited his time as a prosecutor in the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office and as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York with shaping his approach to litigation. He told Law360 that "one of the unique things about being a prosecutor is that you're responsible for everything from start to finish, and it really hones your skills, and it gives you an attention to detail that has served me well.” He also noted that mentors throughout his prosecutorial career instilled the importance of mastering case facts and legal theories and presenting them to juries in a clear, understandable, and persuasive manner.
Michael’s legal acumen, sound judgment, and steady leadership have earned praise from clients and colleagues alike. Chairman Eric J. Belfi noted, “Clients know they are working with someone who is meticulous in preparation, strategic in execution, and relentlessly focused on achieving results.” Firm client Timothy J. Smyth, Executive Officer of the Boston Retirement System, described working with Michael as “an exceptional experience,” adding that, "Litigation can be stressful and overwhelming, and Michael has a rare ability to make clients feel informed, confident and supported throughout the process." Jeffrey M. Gill, General Counsel of the Indiana Public Retirement System, echoed that sentiment, pointing to Michael’s leadership in matters that secured recoveries for investors, including settlements of $39 million in Opendoor Technologies and $26.75 million in StoneCo. “He has a very common-sense approach to negotiation and conflict resolution,” Jeffrey said. “He is passionate about his cases and believes completely in the causes of our cases.”
Michael’s trial skills were most visible in the landmark Meta privacy case. While co-defendants Google, Flo Health, and Flurry resolved claims before trial, the case against Meta proceeded to a jury verdict that established liability under the California Invasion of Privacy Act. Reflecting on the decision to take the case to trial, Michael emphasized the Firm’s commitment to seeing the case through, noting that its attorneys were fully prepared to present the claims before a jury and remained confident in the strength of the case. Colleagues credited Michael’s extensive trial experience and disciplined preparation as key factors in the successful outcome. As Chairman Eric J. Belfi observed, “He was extraordinarily prepared and methodical, and his cross-examinations were highly effective because they combined technical command of the evidence with a disciplined courtroom presence that resonated with the jury.”
Law360 also highlighted Michael’s passion for tackling complex legal issues on behalf of institutional investors and consumers. He attributed his drive not only to his prosecutorial background but also to a lifelong love of learning and critical thinking. As Eric remarked, “Mike is one of the most respected leaders at our firm because he brings exceptional judgment and consistency to very complex matters. He’s also a truly nice person to work with, although no one should underestimate how effective he is. He’s a dominant litigator, and you should expect to continue to see his name on some of the biggest cases in our field moving forward.”

