Michael A. Costello, Esq.

Biography

Michael A. Costello is an attorney, public policy leader, and former state legislator whose career has

been defined by service, coalition-building, and major legislative achievements in financial services,

public safety, and emerging industries.

Michael graduated from Salem State University and earned his Juris Doctor from Suffolk University
Law School. While in college, he devoted his time to volunteer work in Appalachia, rebuilding homes
in some of the poorest communities in the region—an early experience that shaped his commitment
to public service and social equity.

After college, Michael worked in human services, supporting individuals experiencing homelessness
in Boston shelters and later advocating for housing and recovery services at the Massachusetts
Alcohol and Drug Abuse Association. He then served as an Assistant District Attorney in Essex County, where he handled a wide range of criminal matters and worked closely with law enforcement and community partners.

Michael entered local government as a Newburyport City Councillor before being elected to the

Massachusetts House of Representatives in 2002. During his legislative tenure, he served as Chair
of the Joint Committee on Financial Services and later as Chair of the Joint Committee on Public
Safety and Homeland Security. In these roles, he shepherded landmark legislation in banking,
insurance, and public safety, helping modernize regulatory systems and strengthen consumer
protections. In 2010, Michael co-founded Smith Costello & Crawford, with partners Jim Smith and
Jennifer Crawford, building one of Massachusetts’ most respected public affairs and government
relations firms. He has represented hundreds of clients across sectors including energy, transportation, human services, healthcare, and biotech, advising organizations on complex legal, regulatory, and legislative Issues.

Michael has been a leading advocate for the offshore wind industry, helping organize stakeholders
and build the political momentum that culminated in first-of-its-kind legislation in the Western

Hemisphere—establishing Massachusetts as a national and global leader in clean energy innovation.

In healthcare, he has represented major providers and industry groups, and has been actively
engaged in efforts to strengthen hospitals, expand access to care, and support the state’s
biotechnology Ecosystem.

Despite a portfolio that includes major corporations and industry leaders, Michael has maintained a

strong commitment to social service organizations, serving as a lobbyist and advocate for clients such as Big Brothers Big Sisters and other mission-driven nonprofits that, in his words, “hold a special place in his heart.” (For a full list of clients, see Smith Costello & Crawford.)

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Over a career spanning public service, legal practice, and public affairs, Michael A. Costello has earned a reputation as a strategic thinker, trusted advisor, and collaborative leader, with a consistent focus on impact, integrity, and community