Atty. Michael James Nelson

Atty. Michael James Nelson

Michael James Nelson is a lawyer practicing construction law, family, litigation. Michael received a B.S. degree from University of Southern California in 1976, and has been licensed for 47 years.

Irvine Irvine 47 yrs experience 47 year
Call (626) 268-1613 Book Appointment

Construction Law & More Attorney · Serving Irvine, CA · 47+ Years Experience

Profile Summary

About Michael James Nelson at a Glance

Michael James Nelson is an Of Counsel based in Irvine, California, practicing at Murtaugh Llp. They have 47+ years of legal experience, licensed to practice since 1979. Their practice focuses on family law, construction, and litigation. Admitted to practice in California (1979). Educated at Pepperdine University (J.D., 1979) and University of Southern California (B.S., 1976). Recognitions include AV Preeminent. Active member of Orange County Bar Association State Bar of California Orange County Trial Lawyers Association. Serves clients in Irvine, CA and the surrounding metropolitan area.

Verified attorney profile · Updated November 2026

About Michael James Nelson

  • Michael James Nelson is a lawyer practicing construction law, family, litigation
  • Michael received a B.S. degree from University of Southern California in 1976, and has been licensed for 47 years
  • Michael practices at Murtaugh LLP in Irvine, CA

Practice Areas Explained

Michael James Nelson's Areas of Legal Practice

Each practice area below reflects the types of cases Michael James Nelson handles, with a practical overview of what that area of law involves and how it may apply to your situation in Irvine.

Family Law in Irvine

Family law attorneys handle divorce, child custody, child support, adoption, prenups, and protective orders. Find verified family lawyers near you.

Michael James Nelson is one of 185,688 family law attorneys indexed nationally. Browse family law attorneys in California →

Construction Law in Irvine

Michael James Nelson is one of 40,302 construction attorneys indexed nationally. Browse construction attorneys in California →

Civil Litigation in Irvine

Civil litigation attorneys for breach of contract, business disputes, civil rights, and class action lawsuits.

Michael James Nelson is one of 450,750 litigation attorneys indexed nationally. Browse litigation attorneys in California →

Jurisdictional Context

Why Local Counsel Matters in Irvine

Practicing law in California. Legal matters in California are governed by state-specific rules of civil and criminal procedure, statutes of limitations, and substantive law. Cases originating in Irvine are typically filed in the local municipal court or the appropriate California state district court, depending on subject matter and amount in controversy. An attorney licensed in California brings working knowledge of local procedural deadlines, judicial practices in this venue, and the substantive law that applies to cases brought here. Out-of-state attorneys generally cannot represent clients in California courts without local counsel or pro hac vice admission.

Irvine Courts and Legal Process

Choosing a Irvine-based attorney means your counsel already knows the local docketing timelines, preferred filing formats, and how individual judges typically rule on procedural motions — details that only come from practicing in this jurisdiction day after day. That local familiarity can translate to better strategy, faster filings, and fewer costly surprises.

Looking for additional California attorneys? Browse all attorneys in Irvine or all attorneys in California.

Frequently Asked

Common Questions About Michael James Nelson

Where is Michael James Nelson's law office located?
Michael James Nelson's law practice is located in Irvine, California. The firm is Murtaugh Llp. You can contact the office directly through this profile page.
What practice areas does Michael James Nelson handle?
Michael James Nelson focuses on family law, construction, litigation. Each practice area listed reflects experience handling cases of that type in California.
How long has Michael James Nelson practiced law?
Michael James Nelson has 47+ years of legal experience and has been licensed since 1979.
Where did Michael James Nelson go to law school?
Michael James Nelson earned their education at (J.D., 1979); (B.S., 1976).
How can I contact Michael James Nelson for a consultation?
You can contact Michael James Nelson directly through this profile page. Click "Ask the Attorney" to submit a question, or "Schedule a Consultation" to book a meeting. Most claimed-profile attorneys respond within one business day.
What awards or recognition has Michael James Nelson received?
Michael James Nelson's notable recognition includes: AV Preeminent.

Professional Profile

Why Clients in Irvine Choose Michael James Nelson

Selecting an attorney is one of the most consequential decisions you can make when a legal matter arises. Below are the core qualities that distinguish Michael James Nelson's practice in the field of family law, construction, and litigation.

Decade-Tested Legal Experience

Michael James Nelson brings 47+ years of hands-on legal practice — enough to have navigated the recurring fact patterns, procedural traps, and negotiation dynamics that shape case outcomes.

Broad Practice Area Coverage

Covering family law, construction, and litigation, Michael James Nelson can address the full spectrum of a client's legal needs without requiring referrals to separate specialists for each issue.

Local Presence in Irvine

A Irvine-based practice means Michael James Nelson attends hearings in the same courthouses, knows the local clerks, and understands the unwritten scheduling norms that affect every case filed here.

Case Types

Common Legal Issues Michael James Nelson Handles in Irvine

Below is a representative sample of the types of matters Michael James Nelson has experience with under California law. If your situation involves one of these case categories, this attorney may be well positioned to help you understand your options.

Divorce and property division
Family Law
Child custody and support
Family Law
Spousal support (alimony)
Family Law
Prenuptial agreements
Family Law

This list is illustrative, not exhaustive. Contact Michael James Nelson directly to discuss the specifics of your situation.

Search Reference

How People Find Michael James Nelson Online

Prospective clients searching for legal help in Irvine commonly use a combination of the attorney's name and their specific legal need. The following search terms frequently lead people to this profile and to attorneys like Michael James Nelson.

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If any of the above matches what you searched for, you've found the right profile. Use the contact options at the top of this page to get in touch with Michael James Nelson directly.

Michael James Nelson's Practice Areas & Specializations

Education & Law School Background

J.D.
Pepperdine University
- 1979
B.S.
University of Southern California
- 1976

Awards & Professional Honors

AV Preeminent

Bar Admissions & Licensed Jurisdictions

California
Admitted: 1979

Client Reviews & Ratings — Michael James Nelson

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