Founder Of MLG Automotive Law Up For Pulitzer Prize

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., Feb. 18, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Jonathan Michaels, founding member of MLG Automotive Law, is being considered for a Pulitzer Prize in Journalism for his work on the General Motors ignition switch recall. In early 2014, Michaels authored several articles that appeared on the front page of the Los Angeles Daily Journal, helping to expose GM's decade-long coverup of the deadly defect. Michaels' journalistic work lead to MLG's filing of a national class action against GM. It is widely-expected that the ignition switch concealment will cost GM billions.

When the story broke, GM admitted that it had been concealing 12 consumer deaths that were related to the ignition switch defect. Michaels reported that he believed the number to be much higher. Since that time, GM has set up a victim compensation fund through well-known mediator Ken Feinberg who has approved payment on 52 death claims. Feinberg received a total of 462 death claims, many of which are still under consideration.

Established in 1917 and administered by Columbia University, Pulitzer Prizes are awarded annually by a panel of 102 judges for achievements in journalism, literature and musical composition. Prior winners have included Robert Frost, Tennessee Williams and John Steinbeck. The results of this year's competition will be announced on April 20.

Michaels, who attended the April 2014 congressional hearings where GM chief executive Mary Barra testified, has been intimately involved in the developments of the ignition switch recall. Michaels has been called on by the New York Times, Reuters and the Wall Street Journal for relevant comment. "For all the families who have suffered so greatly, I am grateful that justice is finally being delivered," said Michaels. "The road has been treacherous, but for those who believe in what they are doing, the result has been tremendous. Knowing that we have made a difference has made it all worthwhile."

About MLG Automotive Law

Located in Newport Beach, California, MLG Automotive Law is a full service business law firm, focusing on the automotive industry. MLG Automotive Law has litigated cases against nearly every major manufacturer, and is counsel on the GM ignition switch class action. Follow MLG Automotive Law on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.

Jonathan Michaels and MLG Automotive Law may be reached at (949) 581-6900 or by email at [email protected].

Contact: Deb Pollack
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SOURCE MLG Automotive Law