How much does it cost to hire Michael for a adr case?

Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Michael walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

Does Michael offer a free consultation?

Michael charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Michael's office. Some adr attorneys offer free consults — check Michael's current terms during booking.

How long do adr cases in Hawaii typically take?

Simple adr matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Michael gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

Can Michael take my case if I'm outside Honolulu?

Michael is licensed in Hawaii. Matters governed by Hawaii law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Michael will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

What should I bring to my first meeting with Michael?

Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Michael will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

Is Michael accepting new adr clients right now?

Michael's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

Michael Cornelius Bird, ADR Attorney in Honolulu

Quick answer

Michael Cornelius Bird is a partner based in Honolulu, HI. The practice focuses on ADR, Appellate, and Construction. Michael has over 34 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Watanabe Ing LLP. Rated 4.3 out of 5 from 3 client reviews.

Based in: Honolulu, HI
Experience: over 34 years
Known for: ADR · Appellate · Construction

Handles ADR, Appellate, and Construction matters from Honolulu, HI.
Over 34 years of practice as a licensed attorney.
Recognized with Peer Reviewed.

Areas of practice

Michael's practice areas in Honolulu

Michael concentrates on adr, appellate, construction, contracts, and environmental. Each area below outlines the kind of case Michael handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

ADR cases in Honolulu, Hawaii

Michael takes adr matters in Honolulu, Hawaii. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Michael agrees to represent you.

Appellate cases in Honolulu, Hawaii

Michael takes appellate matters in Honolulu, Hawaii. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Michael agrees to represent you.

Construction cases in Honolulu, Hawaii

Michael takes construction matters in Honolulu, Hawaii. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Michael agrees to represent you.

Contracts cases in Honolulu, Hawaii

Michael takes contracts matters in Honolulu, Hawaii. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Michael agrees to represent you.

Environmental cases in Honolulu, Hawaii

Michael takes environmental matters in Honolulu, Hawaii. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Michael agrees to represent you.

Biography

Michael Cornelius Bird, adr attorney serving Honolulu

Michael Cornelius Bird is a partner based in Honolulu, HI. The practice focuses on ADR, Appellate, and Construction. Michael has over 34 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Watanabe Ing LLP. Rated 4.3 out of 5 from 3 client reviews. Michael works from Honolulu, Hawaii and takes on adr matters across the region.

Michael Cornelius Bird is a lawyer practicing construction law, contract law, construction litigation and 27 other areas of law. Michael received a B.A. degree from University of Hawaii in 1987, and has been licensed for 34 years. Michael practices at Watanabe Ing LLP in Honolulu, HI.

Working with Michael on a adr matter

Michael Cornelius Bird is a lawyer practicing construction law, contract law, construction litigation and 27 other areas of law. Michael received a B.A. degree from University of Hawaii in 1987, and has been licensed for 34 years. Michael practices at Watanabe Ing LLP in Honolulu, HI.

Who Michael represents

Michael reviews new inquiries case-by-case for adr, appellate, and construction matters in Honolulu and the surrounding Hawaii area.

Credentials

Credentials — where Michael studied and practices

Santa Clara University
J.D. · 1992
University of Hawaii
B.A. Political · 1987

Jurisdictions

Michael's state bar admissions

Hawaii
1993 · ACTIVE
California
1992 · ACTIVE

Michael studied at J.D. in Santa Clara University and B.A. Political in University of Hawaii.

Law school and academic background

Michael completed J.D. in Santa Clara University and B.A. Political in University of Hawaii. Formal legal training is one signal of substantive knowledge — the day-to-day practice Michael runs in Hawaii is where that training gets applied to real client questions.

Recognition

Michael's legal honors and published work

Michael has received 1 formal recognition from bar associations, industry bodies, and peer-review services.

Peer Reviewed

Legal awards and honors

Peer Reviewed.

Locations

Michael Cornelius Bird's office in Honolulu

Michael's primary office is at First Hawaiian Center, 999 Bishop Street, 23rd Floor, Honolulu, HI, 96813. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Main office

Watanabe Ing LLP

First Hawaiian Center, 999 Bishop Street, 23rd Floor

Honolulu, HI 96813

Open in Google Maps

Client feedback

Client reviews of Michael Cornelius Bird — 4.3/5 rating from 3 verified client reviews

Every review below is from a verified client of Michael. Reviews cover communication, case outcome, and value — the three signals that matter most when comparing adr attorneys in Honolulu.

4.3

3 client reviews

Client ratings are sourced from public records and editorial research. Reviews on LawyersListed are accepted from verified clients once Michael Cornelius Bird claims this profile.

Read all reviews

Hiring guide

How to hire Michael Cornelius Bird — what to expect in your first consultation

Working with a new adr attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Michael usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Consultation formats and pricing

Michael charges for the initial consult. That fee is credited toward representation if you retain Michael's office.

What to bring to your first meeting

Bring any documents you already have — police reports, medical records, filed pleadings, correspondence from an insurer, a copy of the contract at issue. If you're not sure, err on the side of bringing everything; Michael will tell you what matters and what doesn't.

Questions to ask a adr attorney in Honolulu, Hawaii

A short list to run through before you commit: How many adr matters have you handled in the last year? What's your fee structure? Who else in the office will work on this? What's your realistic estimate of timeline and range of outcomes? How do I reach you between meetings?

Fees & payment

Fees, payment methods, and consultation options for Michael

Michael discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in adr practice — ask which fits.

Hourly rates, contingency fees, and flat-fee options

Every adr matter is priced differently. Simple document review might be a flat fee. Injury litigation is often contingency. Complex commercial disputes usually run hourly with a retainer. Michael confirms the model in the engagement letter before any work starts.

Payment methods and payment plans

Michael's office accepts standard payment methods. Ask about payment plans if the retainer is a stretch — many adr practices work with clients on structured schedules.

Frequently asked

Frequently asked questions about Michael Cornelius Bird

How much does it cost to hire Michael for a adr case?
Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Michael walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.
Does Michael offer a free consultation?
Michael charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Michael's office. Some adr attorneys offer free consults — check Michael's current terms during booking.
How long do adr cases in Hawaii typically take?
Simple adr matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Michael gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.
Can Michael take my case if I'm outside Honolulu?
Michael is licensed in Hawaii. Matters governed by Hawaii law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Michael will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.
What should I bring to my first meeting with Michael?
Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Michael will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.
Is Michael accepting new adr clients right now?
Michael's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

Community Q&A

Real questions asked by Hawaii residents in the last few months, answered by adr attorneys like Michael Cornelius Bird. Each link opens the full answer thread.

Can Mediation Be Used To Resolve A Workplace Harassment Claim In Illinois?
I reported a workplace harassment issue in Chicago, IL, but I want to avoid a lengthy legal battle. My HR department suggested mediation as a way to resolve the issue amicably. I’m
1 verified answer · ADR · Illinois
Is Mediation Confidential For Business Disputes In Nevada?
I’m involved in a business dispute in Las Vegas, NV, and I’m thinking about mediation. I’m concerned about privacy and what might happen if the details get out. Is mediation confid
1 verified answer · ADR · Nevada
Can Mediation Help Resolve A Debt Dispute In South Carolina?
I live in Charleston, SC, and I’m dealing with debt collectors regarding an unpaid medical bill. I really want to resolve this without going to court. I’ve heard mediation can be a
1 verified answer · ADR · South Carolina
Can I Mediate A Child Custody Dispute In California If We Agree?
I live in Los Angeles, CA, and my ex-partner and I have agreed to some terms regarding child custody after our separation in June 2023. We think mediation could help finalize our a
1 verified answer · ADR · California
Can Mediation Help Resolve An HOA Dispute In Arizona?
I’ve been having issues with my homeowners association in Scottsdale, AZ, over some unfair fines. I feel like we could reach a compromise, but I don’t know if mediation is an optio
1 verified answer · ADR · Arizona
What Should I Do If Mediation Fails In Minnesota?
I've been trying to mediate a separation agreement in Minneapolis, MN, but it feels like we’re not making any progress. If mediation fails, I’m worried about what my next steps sho
1 verified answer · ADR · Minnesota

Areas served

ADR attorneys serving Honolulu, Wailuku and Hilo in Hawaii

Michael handles adr matters throughout Hawaii. Each city below is a direct link into the search page for verified adr attorneys in that community.

Michael Cornelius Bird, ADR Attorney in Honolulu, Hawaii

Quick answer