Two Michael Best Attorneys Named as Women in the Law Winners 

Michael Best is thrilled to announce that Partners Elizabeth Odian and Melisssa Turczyn have been selected as 2026 Women in the Law by The Wisconsin Law Journal, recognizing their achievements in the legal community. The annual program recognizes outstanding women attorneys across the state for their legal excellence, leadership, and commitment to advancing the profession and the broader Wisconsin community. Odian and Turczyn were selected for their significant client impact, firm leadership, and dedication to mentoring and community involvement.  

As a Partner in the Labor & Employment practice, Odian defends businesses in employment litigation matters involving discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, and retaliation. She uses the lessons learned from her extensive litigation background to help employers avoid costly litigation. In addition, she is entering her fourth year as co-chair of the Summer Associate Committee. Outside of the firm, Odian serves as Board Chair for the Women’s Fund of Greater Milwaukee where she has led several committees in the five years she’s been involved with the organization.  

As a Partner in the Corporate and Venture Best practices and Management Committee Member, Turczyn works closely with entrepreneurs and has a strong track record helping to organize, finance, and build early-stage and emerging growth companies. Her broad background helps her lead the firm’s Venture Capital Practice Group and Start-up & Emerging Businesses Practice Group. Outside of the firm, Turczyn serves on several boards of Wisconsin-based organizations, including the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra, Wisconsin Technology Council, and M3 Insurance. For almost 12 years, she has also helped lead Madison’s Pressure Chamber pitch competition as part of the Planning and Screening Committee.  

To see the full list of 2026 Women in the Law winners, click here.