Michael Bachmann is known for being detail-oriented and pragmatic — and for applying that combination in a way that keeps his clients' projects moving forward. His colleagues and clients rely on him equally for his legal precision and his practical, business-minded judgment.

Michael joined Rider Clayton’s commercial real estate practice in 2025, bringing nearly a decade of experience in commercial real estate matters, including acquisitions and dispositions, leasing, financing, and land use matters. His experience also includes negotiating redevelopment and financial agreements, as well as both obtaining and defending land use approvals from municipal zoning and planning boards throughout New Jersey.

Prior to joining Rider Clayton, Michael spent over six years in the commercial real estate department of an Am Law 100 firm. He joined that firm as an associate and was later elevated to partner. Michael’s skill has been recognized in the larger legal community as well; he has been named to the Best Lawyers “Ones to Watch” list in New Jersey for Real Estate Law every year from 2021 through 2026.

Earlier in his career, Michael served as judicial law clerk to the Honorable Marie P. Simonelli of the Appellate Division of the Superior Court of New Jersey before gaining valuable experience at two respected private law firms.

When not practicing law, Michael is a firefighter for the Cranford Fire Department.

Practice Areas
  • Acquisitions and Dispositions
  • Leasing
  • Financing
Education
  • Seton Hall University School of Law, J.D. cum laude (2015)

    • Seton Hall Law Review, Articles Editor
    • Distinguished Scholar
  • Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, B.A. cum laude (2012)

    • Phi Beta Kappa
Licensure
  • New Jersey
  • New York
Professional Memberships & Associations
  • New Jersey State Bar Association, Land Use Law Section
  • National Association of Industrial and Office Parks (NAIOP) New Jersey, Developing Leaders Member