Overview
Michael Rips is an experienced attorney with a unique background in art law. He is sought out by top artists, museums, and foundations to provide legal representation on matters involving copyright and intellectual property issues. He writes extensively on the subjects of art law and art theory for The New York Times and other publications and provides commentary on these topics.
Clients turn to Michael because of his extensive background and connections to the art world. Prior to rejoining Steptoe, Michael served as an Executive Director at the Art Students League of New York. While there, he directed all operations and initiatives, and raised an unprecedented amount of money and publicity for the institution. Additionally, Michael is the co-creator and host of an upcoming podcast on American culture with co-producers and creators Kurt Andersen (co- creator and host of Peabody Award-winning public radio program and podcast Studio 360) and Ed Solomon (writer: Men in Black, Bill & Ted; and No Sudden Move).
Michael also has significant litigation experience including extensive appellate practice. He successfully tried one of the largest class action cases involving alleged securities fraud. His litigation matters have also involved internal investigations, arbitrations, and white-collar criminal cases. He has an outstanding record representing Fortune 500 companies in pre-trial and post-trial legal proceedings, including briefing and arguing dispositive motions and appeals across the country.
- New York
- US Court of Appeals, Third Circuit
- Hon. Justice William Brennan Jr., Supreme Court of the United States, 1984-1985
- Hon. Henry Politz, US Court of Appeals, Fifth Circuit, 1982-1983
- J.D., The George Washington University Law School, 1982
- M.Litt., University of Oxford, 1979
- B.A., Princeton University, 1976