Attorney Michael J. Ortlieb, Esquire
Partner
Professional Background
Michael J. Ortlieb began practicing law in New Hampshire after graduating cum laude from Suffolk University Law School in 2006. During law school, he earned several academic honors, including the Distinguished Oral Advocate Award, and worked full-time as a paralegal for Burns, Bryant, Cox, Rockefeller & Durkin, one of New Hampshire’s oldest and most respected law firms.
Following law school, he worked as a contract attorney in Boston before joining John Anthony Simmons, PLLC in 2008. He became a partner in 2012, helping to shape what is now Simmons & Ortlieb, PLLC.
With a career spanning civil and family litigation to estate planning and criminal record annulments, Attorney Ortlieb brings a wealth of experience and insight to his clients across the Seacoast region of New Hampshire, including Hampton, Portsmouth, Rye, Exeter, and beyond.
Practice Areas
Attorney Ortlieb provides experienced, strategic legal counsel across a wide range of practice areas, including:
- Civil Litigation – including personal injury, contract disputes, and more
- Family Law – divorce, child support, alimony, custody, adoption, guardianships
- Landlord-Tenant Disputes
- Estate Planning – wills, trusts, powers of attorney
- Personal Injury
Whether advocating before a judge or negotiating a settlement, Attorney Ortlieb is known for his tenacity and honest, client-first approach.
Approach to Legal Representation
Clients often describe Michael Ortlieb as plainspoken, accessible, and highly committed. He believes legal representation should be clear, transparent, and collaborative. That’s why he avoids legal jargon and keeps his clients involved and informed every step of the way.
He provides honest assessments—even when the truth is hard to hear—and makes himself available as much as possible to answer questions and provide updates. He is a passionate litigator and a strong believer in justice for individuals who have been mistreated by large institutions or “chewed up by the system.” While he is ready to fight in court when necessary, he also recognizes the value of mediation and arbitration in achieving the best outcomes.
Education & Admissions
- J.D., Suffolk University Law School, cum laude, 2006
- Recipient of Distinguished Oral Advocate Award
- B.A. in Psychology & B.A. in Behavioral Science, Cedarville University, 1992
- Graduated with High Honors
- Included in Who’s Who in American Colleges and Universities
Attorney Ortlieb is admitted to practice in:
- New Hampshire
- Massachusetts
- United States District Court for the District of New Hampshire
In 2013, he was selected to join the New Hampshire Bar Leadership Academy, a program that identifies and promotes future leaders within the state’s legal community.
