Michael Zalay
Business Attorney
Business Attorney
Restaurants have many of the same needs as other successful businesses, but hospitality clients encounter certain issues unique to their industry. Michael has extensive experience working with hospitality clients to raise capital, lease or buy real estate, prepare and negotiate management agreements, hire and retain employees, keep clients up to date with the ever-changing employment laws, and protect and license intellectual property. He also helps these businesses comply with local, state, and federal regulations and resolve conflicts. Attorneys from across his firm collaborate to advise clients holistically, with equal focus and creativity on day-to-day operations and extraordinary events.
Co-chair of Much Shelist P.C.’s Corporate & Finance group, Michael is an accomplished business attorney. He is experienced in structuring and negotiating business transactions for clients ranging from startups to established companies. Michael regularly advises clients on acquisitions and dispositions of businesses and real estate, corporate and LLC formation and governing documents, private placements, stock sale and asset purchase agreements, supplier and distribution agreements, professional services agreements, and commercial and retail leases. He also assists clients in the formation of shareholder, member, and partner relationships, as well as the resolution of related disputes.
Serving as de facto general counsel, Michael advises clients on issues ranging from day-to-day operations to extraordinary transactions. His practice spans numerous industries, including information technology, medical, consulting, construction, marketing, manufacturing and distribution, industrial recycling, financial services, and real estate. He also has extensive experience representing clients in the food service and hospitality industries, including chefs and restaurant owners.
We represent some of the largest restaurant groups in the country, with groups owning multiple brands and anywhere from five to 100+ restaurants; Multiple James Bears Award Winner and nominees; Restaurants accumulating over 50 Michelin Stars; Winners and alumni of “Top Chef”, “Master Chef”, “Master Chef Jr.”, “Tournament of Champions”, “Beat Bobby Flay”, “BBQ Brawl”, “Iron Chef”, and "Chopped" among others.