Thomas Michael
Tom Michael leads Manatt’s Digital and Technology Group. He is also a Venture Capital and Emerging Companies partner in the Los Angeles office. In these roles, Tom shapes the strategic direction of Manatt’s work across high‑growth, innovation‑driven industries and advises some of the most dynamic companies and investors in the market.
A recognized leader in the startup and venture capital ecosystem, Tom is a trusted advisor to top entrepreneurs, well-known fund managers and high‑profile individuals navigating all stages of company and investment lifecycles. He represents founders and companies building category‑defining businesses across technology, consumer products, digital health, artificial intelligence, entertainment, gaming and more.
Tom has served as counsel to multiple unicorn‑stage companies from formation through growth as well as exit and has closed billions of dollars in venture financing transactions. His experience spans the full spectrum of strategic transactions, including large‑scale sell‑side exits, buy‑side acquisitions, joint ventures, and complex commercial partnerships with the world’s most prominent public and private technology companies and private equity funds.
In addition to his extensive company‑side work, Tom frequently advises venture capital funds, angel groups, family offices and high‑net‑worth individuals, including prominent athletes, actors, musicians and other public figures, on venture investments, portfolio strategy and sophisticated transactions in emerging technology sectors.
Before joining Manatt, Tom co‑chaired the emerging companies practice at a global law firm, where he helped lead and scale one of the largest platforms for venture‑backed companies in the country.
