My Why
What powers my practice
As I contemplated possible careers, I looked for something in law that was intellectually stimulating and rewarding and which focused on analysis and client counseling. My practice has pulled me into court numerous times, with many cases before the U.S. Court of Appeals. I enjoy exploring the evolution of the legal areas in which I practice and understanding how courts and agencies interpret the rules as they apply to various circumstances. This enables me to counsel clients effectively and offer a distinct advantage in specialized matters. For over 25 years, I’ve shared my interest in following various trends in benefits court cases (as well as my own litigation experience) by presenting the annual “Employee Benefits Litigation Update” for the Milwaukee Bar Association. My goal has always been to provide exemplary client service through deep legal knowledge and strong advocacy.
Credentials
- Marquette University Law School, Juris Doctor (J.D.), 1981
- University of Wisconsin - Madison, Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.), 1977
- Wisconsin
- United States Supreme Court
- United States Court of Appeals, Seventh Circuit
- United States District Court, Eastern District of Wisconsin
- United States District Court, Western District of Wisconsin
- The Midwest’s Best Lawyers©, Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law, 2021
- Leading Employee Benefits & Compensation Lawyer, Chambers USA, 2005–present
- Best Lawyers®, Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law, 2005–present
- Selected to Employee Benefits, Employment & Labor Super Lawyers, Super Lawyers®, 2005-2009, 2013-2016
Engagement
- Member, Milwaukee Bar Association and Past Chairman of its Employee Benefits Section (provides its annual ERISA Litigation Update)
- Member, American Bar Association, and the Employee Benefits Committee of its Labor and Employment Section
- Member, State Bar of Wisconsin
- Yellow Belt Certified, Legal Lean Sigma
- Member, Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce Health Care Committee
- Member, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Employee Benefits Committee
- Past President, Greater Milwaukee Employee Benefits Council
- Former member of Board of Directors, Wellness Council of Wisconsin
- Past President, St. Thomas More Lawyers Society of Wisconsin
Insights

Michael Best Attorneys Earn Recognition in The Best Lawyers in America 2027 List
Michael Best is proud to announce that 150 attorneys have been selected to The Best Lawyers in America 2027 list, with representation across 52 different practice areas across the nation. In addition, the firm is also excited to share that six attorneys have been named to the 2027 edition of the “Lawyer of the Year” list, which is a prestigious designation of a single lawyer in each specific practice area and location. 33 attorneys have also been named to the Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch 2027 list.Read
Aug 20, 2026

Forty-Seven Attorneys Recognized in Chambers USA 2026 Rankings
Michael Best is pleased to announce that 47 attorneys have been recognized in the 2026 edition of Chambers USA.Read
Jun 4, 2026

Michael Best Attorneys Earn Recognition in The Best Lawyers in America 2026 List
Michael Best is proud to announce the selection of 104 firm attorneys to The Best Lawyers in America 2026 list, with representation across 48 different areas of legal practice nationwide.Read
Aug 21, 2025
