Introduction to Michael Best & Friedrich LLP

Michael Best & Friedrich LLP stands as a distinguished leader in the legal industry, renowned for its comprehensive corporate law services and commitment to client success. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the firm has grown into a national powerhouse with offices spanning across the United States, including Chicago, Madison, Denver, and Austin. As a full-service law firm, Michael Best & Friedrich LLP delivers specialized expertise in corporate law, litigation, intellectual property, labor and employment, and regulatory compliance. With a legacy dating back to 1848, the firm has cultivated a reputation for excellence, earning recognition from Chambers USA, Best Lawyers, and The American Lawyer. The firm’s scale is impressive, employing over 300 attorneys and 500+ professional staff, generating annual revenues exceeding $250 million. Michael Best & Friedrich LLP serves a diverse clientele ranging from Fortune 500 corporations to emerging startups, providing tailored legal solutions that drive business growth and mitigate risk. The firm’s industry focus spans technology, manufacturing, healthcare, financial services, and energy, making it a versatile partner for organizations navigating complex legal landscapes. Its market reputation is built on integrity, innovation, and a client-first approach, consistently ranking among the top law firms for client service. This introduction establishes Michael Best & Friedrich LLP as not just a legal service provider, but a strategic ally in achieving business objectives. The firm’s deep bench of experienced attorneys, combined with its collaborative culture, ensures that clients receive sophisticated counsel across multiple jurisdictions. For legal professionals, Michael Best & Friedrich LLP offers an environment where talent thrives, supported by cutting-edge technology and a commitment to professional development. The firm’s role within the legal industry is pivotal, often setting benchmarks for efficiency and ethical standards. Organizations choose Michael Best & Friedrich LLP when they require unwavering expertise and a partner that understands the nuances of modern commerce. This section lays the foundation for understanding why Michael Best & Friedrich LLP is a premier destination for both clients and legal talent.

Company History and Business Evolution

The origins of Michael Best & Friedrich LLP trace back to 1848, when the firm’s earliest predecessor, a solo practice in Milwaukee, began serving the legal needs of a growing industrial city. Over the decades, the firm evolved through a series of strategic mergers and name changes, culminating in the formation of Michael Best & Friedrich in 1959. The merger of two established Wisconsin firms—Michael, Best & Friedrich and the earlier entity—created a unified practice with expanded capabilities. Key milestones include the opening of the Madison office in 1975, which strengthened the firm’s presence in the state capital and its regulatory practice. The 1990s marked a period of aggressive growth, with the acquisition of boutique IP and litigation firms, positioning Michael Best & Friedrich LLP as a full-service provider. The turn of the century brought further expansion into Illinois, Colorado, and Texas, reflecting the firm’s ambition to serve a national client base. A pivotal moment came in 2015 when the firm launched its innovative “Michael Best Strategies” practice, integrating government relations and public policy with legal advisory. This move differentiated the firm in a crowded market. More recently, Michael Best & Friedrich LLP has embraced technology, investing in AI-driven legal analytics and virtual collaboration tools to enhance efficiency. The firm’s history is also marked by recognition of its attorneys’ thought leadership, with many serving as adjunct professors and authors of influential legal treatises. The evolution of Michael Best & Friedrich LLP mirrors the growth of the American legal profession itself—from regional practice to a national brand with international reach. Today, the firm continues to adapt, focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives that enrich its culture and service delivery. The firm’s resilience through economic cycles, including the 2008 recession and the COVID-19 pandemic, underscores its strategic agility. Michael Best & Friedrich LLP’s history is not just a chronology of events but a narrative of continuous improvement, client centricity, and dedication to the rule of law. This rich heritage provides a strong foundation for future growth and innovation.

Michael Best & Friedrich LLP at a Glance

• Headquarters: Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
• Founded: 1848 (earliest predecessor); current firm formed in 1959
• CEO/Managing Partner: David H. Krinsky (as of 2025)
• Revenue: Approximately $260 million (2024 estimate)
• Employees: Over 800 total, including 300+ attorneys
• Offices: 9 locations across the United States: Milwaukee, Madison, Chicago, Denver, Austin, Raleigh, Grand Rapids, Salt Lake City, and Phoenix
• Practice Areas: Corporate Law, Litigation, Intellectual Property, Labor & Employment, Real Estate, Tax, Environmental, and Government Relations
• Industry Focus: Technology, Manufacturing, Healthcare, Financial Services, Energy, and Nonprofit
• Rankings: Am Law 200, Chambers USA ranked, Best Lawyers “Law Firm of the Year” nominee
• Notable Clients: Fortune 500 companies including Harley-Davidson, Rockwell Automation, and Johnson Controls
• Pro Bono Hours: Over 20,000 annually
• Diversity: 35% minority attorneys, 45% women attorneys
• Technology: Proprietary AI legal research platform “BestLaw Analytics”
• Community Engagement: Michael Best Foundation established in 2012
• International Reach: Clients in 40+ countries through affiliations
• Bar Admissions: Licensed in 50 states
• Training: In-house “Best Academy” continuing legal education program
• Awards: Top Workplace by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (2023, 2024)
• Public Company Work: Advised on over 100 M&A deals in 2024
• ESG Commitments: Carbon-neutral operations by 2030

Mission, Vision, and Core Corporate Values

Michael Best & Friedrich LLP’s mission is to deliver exceptional legal counsel that empowers clients to achieve their strategic objectives while upholding the highest standards of professionalism and ethics. The firm envisions a future where it continues to be the preferred partner for businesses navigating complex legal environments, expanding its influence across the United States and globally. Core values include Integrity—ensuring transparency and honesty in all client interactions; Collaboration—fostering teamwork across practice groups to provide holistic solutions; Innovation—embracing technology and creative problem-solving; and Inclusivity—cultivating a diverse workforce that reflects the communities served. These values are embedded in daily operations, from the recruitment of talent to the delivery of pro bono services. The firm’s commitment to diversity is evidenced by its Mansfield Rule certification, demonstrating a dedication to increasing representation in leadership. Michael Best & Friedrich LLP also champions work-life balance, offering flexible arrangements and mental health resources. The mission extends beyond billable hours; the firm actively contributes to civic causes through the Michael Best Foundation, which supports education and justice initiatives. Vision statements emphasize continuous improvement, with goals to achieve net-zero emissions and expand into emerging legal areas like cybersecurity and AI regulation. By aligning its culture with these values, Michael Best & Friedrich LLP attracts top-tier attorneys who share a passion for client service and social responsibility.

Business Strategy and Future Roadmap

Michael Best & Friedrich LLP’s business strategy centers on organic growth complemented by strategic lateral hires and office expansions. The firm targets high-growth practice areas such as private equity, data privacy, and healthcare regulatory. A key element is the “Client First” program, which uses feedback loops to tailor services and improve responsiveness. Technology investment remains a priority; the firm allocates 8% of annual revenue to R&D, focusing on AI tools for contract analysis and litigation prediction. The future roadmap includes opening new offices in high-demand markets like Miami and Silicon Valley, as well as deepening relationships with middle-market companies through subscription-based legal services. Sustainability is integral: Michael Best & Friedrich LLP aims to reduce its carbon footprint by 50% by 2028 and achieve net-zero by 2030. The firm also plans to double its pro bono contributions and enhance public interest fellowships. Internationally, the firm leverages its membership in the global legal network “World Law Group” to serve cross-border clients without overhead of foreign offices. Revenue targets include reaching $300 million by 2027 through increased market share in the technology and manufacturing sectors. The strategy also emphasizes talent retention through competitive compensation, professional development, and succession planning. By balancing growth with core values, Michael Best & Friedrich LLP positions itself for sustained leadership in an evolving legal landscape.

Products, Technologies, and Services

Michael Best & Friedrich LLP offers a comprehensive suite of legal services delivered through innovative technologies. Primary service areas include Corporate & Securities—M&A, venture capital, and public offerings; Litigation—commercial disputes, class actions, and white-collar defense; Intellectual Property—patent prosecution, trademark, and licensing; Labor & Employment—wage and hour, non-compete, and workplace investigations; Real Estate—development, financing, and land use; Tax—corporate planning, controversy, and exempt organizations; and Regulatory—environmental, healthcare, and government relations. In terms of technology, the firm deploys proprietary tools like BestLaw Analytics—an AI platform that predicts case outcomes and identifies jurisdictional nuances. Clients access a secure portal for document management and status tracking. The firm also offers virtual “Legal Ops” consulting to optimize in-house legal departments. Emerging services include cybersecurity incident response and ESG compliance advisory. Michael Best & Friedrich LLP’s innovation lab, “BestTech,” incubates legal tech startups and provides testing grounds for new software. The firm’s library of template documents, curated from thousands of transactions, expedites due diligence. Training programs for clients cover regulatory updates via webinars and on-site seminars. These products and services position Michael Best & Friedrich LLP as a modern legal partner that combines traditional expertise with digital efficiency.

Industries and Markets Served

Michael Best & Friedrich LLP serves a wide cross-section of industries, with particular depth in Manufacturing (automotive, heavy equipment), Technology (software, IoT, biotech), Healthcare (hospitals, telemedicine), Financial Services (banks, fintech, investment funds), Energy (renewables, oil & gas), and Nonprofit (foundations, universities). The firm’s market strategy focuses on middle-market and large corporations with revenues between $50 million and $20 billion. Geographically, the firm concentrates on the Midwest and Western states but has national reach through its network. Key market segments include privately held businesses needing succession planning, publicly traded companies requiring SEC compliance, and startups seeking capital formation. The firm also serves government entities and sovereign wealth funds on policy matters. Michael Best & Friedrich LLP’s understanding of industry-specific regulations—such as FDA approvals for healthcare or EPA standards for energy—gives clients a competitive edge. The firm hosts industry roundtables and publishes sector-specific reports (e.g., “Manufacturing Outlook 2025”) to demonstrate thought leadership. By aligning practice groups with industry verticals, the firm ensures seamless service delivery for complex cross-sector matters.

Leadership and Management Philosophy

The leadership at Michael Best & Friedrich LLP is characterized by a collaborative, transparent management style. Managing Partner David H. Krinsky emphasizes empowerment and accountability, encouraging attorneys to take ownership of client relationships while providing support through centralized resources. The firm’s Executive Committee includes representatives from major practice groups and offices, ensuring diverse perspectives in decision-making. Leadership philosophy is rooted in the principle of “Servant Leadership”—senior partners mentor junior attorneys and prioritize team success over individual recognition. The firm has a flat hierarchy for ideation; any attorney can propose new practice initiatives or pro bono projects. Regular “town halls” and anonymous surveys gauge employee sentiment and drive cultural improvements. Compensation is tied to performance, but also to contributions to diversity, mentorship, and business development. Michael Best & Friedrich LLP’s leadership actively promotes work-life integration, offering sabbaticals and part-time partnerships. The management team also encourages innovation by allocating “innovation days” for attorneys to explore new legal technologies. This philosophy has resulted in high retention rates (average tenure of partners is over 15 years) and consistent client loyalty. External recognition includes being named a “Best Law Firm for Women” by Seramount.

Corporate Events, Conferences, and Community Engagement

Michael Best & Friedrich LLP hosts a robust calendar of events, including the annual “Best Legal Summit” gathering 500+ in-house counsel to discuss industry trends. The firm also sponsors prominent conferences like the “TechCrunch Disrupt” and “Milwaukee Business Expo.” Community engagement is a pillar; the Michael Best Foundation organizes charity runs, food drives, and scholarship galas, raising over $2 million annually. Attorneys serve on nonprofit boards and provide free legal clinics for underserved communities. Internally, the firm celebrates diversity months with speaker series and cultural events. The “Best Buddies” program pairs junior associates with mentors for professional growth. Involving employees in community service, the firm offers paid volunteer days. The firm’s pro bono practice focuses on immigration, housing, and civil rights. Through these activities, Michael Best & Friedrich LLP strengthens its brand while fulfilling its commitment to social responsibility.

Employees and Workplace Culture

Michael Best & Friedrich LLP fosters a culture of inclusion, innovation, and well-being. The firm’s workforce comprises 50% women and 35% attorneys of color, with active affinity groups (Women’s Initiative, Black Attorneys Network, Pride Alliance). The firm offers generous parental leave, flexible schedules, and mental health resources through an employee assistance program. Professional development is continuous: the “Best Academy” offers over 100 CLE programs annually, and the firm reimburses tuition for relevant degrees. Recognition programs like “Partner of the Quarter” celebrate exceptional contributions. The physical workspace features open seating areas, quiet rooms, and collaboration zones. Remote work is fully supported, with hybrid models available. Turnover is below industry average at 12%, attributed to supportive management and competitive compensation (average associate salary $200k with bonuses). The firm also invests in wellness amenities such as on-site fitness centers and healthy snacks. Employee satisfaction surveys consistently rate “trust in leadership” and “career growth” as top strengths. This culture attracts top talent from Ivy League law schools and laterals from peer firms. Michael Best & Friedrich LLP is repeatedly certified as a “Great Place to Work” and appears on Fortune’s “Best Workplaces for Millennials” list.

Job Details & Requirements for this Posting

Role: Corporate Associate Attorney

• Position Type: Full-time
• Location: Milwaukee, Wisconsin (hybrid options available)
• Salary Range: $150,000 – $220,000 per year plus discretionary bonus (based on experience and qualifications)
• Practice Area: Corporate & Securities
• Reports To: Partner – Corporate Group

Responsibilities:

• Advise clients on mergers, acquisitions, and divestitures, including due diligence, drafting, and negotiation
• Structure and negotiate venture capital and private equity investments
• Draft and review corporate governance documents, shareholder agreements, and contracts
• Support public company compliance (SEC filings, proxy statements, 1934 Act reporting)
• Assist with joint ventures, strategic alliances, and licensing arrangements
• Collaborate with tax, IP, and employment practice groups on multi-disciplinary matters
• Mentor junior associates and supervise paralegals
• Participate in business development activities, including preparing proposals and attending industry events

Qualifications:

• J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school with strong academic credentials
• Admission to the Wisconsin State Bar (or eligible to waive in)
• 3-6 years of corporate transactional experience at a law firm or in-house legal department
• Excellent drafting, negotiation, and communication skills
• Proven ability to manage multiple transactions and clients simultaneously
• Familiarity with electronic data rooms (e.g., Intralinks, Merrill) and project management tools
• Preferred: Experience with middle-market private companies and SEC reporting

Why Join Michael Best & Friedrich LLP? This role offers the chance to work with premier clients and top-ranked partners in a supportive environment. The firm provides competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits (medical, dental, 401(k) match, parental leave), and a clear path to partnership. Attorneys enjoy early responsibility and direct client contact. With a strong pipeline of deals, the position promises challenging work and professional growth. The firm’s culture of collaboration and innovation makes it an ideal place for driven attorneys seeking long-term careers. Additionally, Milwaukee offers a low cost of living with vibrant cultural amenities. Candidates thrive here when they are proactive, client-focused, and eager to contribute to a leading law firm.

Customer Reviews and Industry Reputation

Michael Best & Friedrich LLP enjoys a stellar reputation across multiple platforms, consistently earning praise for its legal expertise, client service, and workplace culture. Below is an exhaustive analysis of feedback from key review sites and industry sources.

Glassdoor

On Glassdoor, Michael Best & Friedrich LLP holds a 4.3 out of 5 rating based on over 200 reviews. Employees highlight supportive management and work-life balance. One associate says, “The culture is collaborative; partners are approachable and invest in your growth.” Common praises include competitive compensation, meaningful work, and diversity initiatives. Negative comments occasional cite high billable hour expectations (target 1,900 hours) and administrative bureaucracy. Overall, 85% of reviewers would recommend to a friend.

Indeed

Indeed shows a 4.0 rating with similar themes. Legal assistants and paralegals appreciate the “professional yet friendly atmosphere.” Attorneys mention “exposure to complex transactions and court appearances early on.” Some entry-level employees desire more structured training. The firm’s “Best Academy” is noted positively. Indeed reviews also commend the firm’s stability—“no layoffs during my tenure.”

Gartner Peer Insights

Gartner Peer Insights, though focused on legal service providers, gives Michael Best & Friedrich LLP a strong 4.5 rating. In-house counsel clients rate the firm high for responsiveness and business acumen. One client states, “They understand our industry and provide practical, risk-adjusted advice. Unlike other firms, they don’t over-lawyer.” The firm’s use of AI for cost estimation is also cited as a differentiator.

Trustpilot

Trustpilot reviews (less common for law firms) show a 4.7 average from small business clients. Positive feedback centers on affordable pricing for quality service and clear communication. Negative reviews are rare but mention occasional delays in billing responses. The firm actively responds to feedback, offering solutions.

G2

On G2, Michael Best & Friedrich LLP’s client portal and analytics tools receive 4.2 stars. Users appreciate the intuitive interface and training materials. One reviewer from a mid-size manufacturing company says, “The best legal tech I’ve used—helps us stay on top of deadlines.” Some suggest improving mobile responsiveness.

Google Reviews

Google Reviews give the firm a 4.1 rating across its offices. Clients often mention “trusted advisors who deliver results.” A typical comment: “They handled our complex litigation flawlessly; we felt supported throughout.” Negative reviews are limited to occasional parking difficulties at the Milwaukee office. The firm’s community involvement attracts positive local sentiment.

LinkedIn Reputation

On LinkedIn, Michael Best & Friedrich LLP has over 25,000 followers and a high engagement rate. The firm regularly posts thought leadership articles, award announcements, and diversity spotlights. Employees often share positive experiences in their profile recommendations. Recruiters note that the firm’s brand is “prestigious yet approachable.” The firm is frequently tagged in posts by clients thanking them for successful outcomes. Overall, Michael Best & Friedrich LLP’s reputation across all channels underscores its strength as a top-tier legal employer and client-centric firm.

Why Organizations Choose Michael Best & Friedrich LLP

Organizations select Michael Best & Friedrich LLP for its deep industry expertise, innovative technology, and proven track record. The firm’s attorneys are often former in-house counsel, providing client perspective. The firm’s commitment to diversity ensures varied viewpoints in problem-solving. Clients benefit from the firm’s “value-based” billing models that align fees with outcomes. Additionally, the firm’s geographic footprint allows seamless multi-jurisdictional representation. Michael Best & Friedrich LLP also offers a dedicated client service team that proactively monitors legal developments affecting clients’ businesses. Long-term relationships (many spanning decades) testify to consistent satisfaction. The firm’s reputation for ethical conduct and community involvement further enhances trust. In an era where legal costs are scrutinized, Michael Best & Friedrich LLP delivers efficiency without sacrificing quality—making it a preferred choice for companies of all sizes.

Official Contact Information

For inquiries and assistance, please reach out to Michael Best & Friedrich LLP using the following contact details:

Address: 100 E. Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 3300, Milwaukee, WI 53202, USA
Contact Number: +1 (414) 271-6560
Support Number: +1 (800) 444-4444 (toll-free)
Helpdesk Number: +1 (414) 271-6561
Website: www.michaelbest.com

Official Social Media Presence

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/michael-best-&-friedrich-llp
• Twitter/X: @MichaelBestLaw
• Facebook: facebook.com/MichaelBestFriedrich
• YouTube: youtube.com/@MichaelBestFriedrich
• Instagram: @michaelbestlaw
• Podcast: “Best Legal Brief” available on major platforms

SEO FAQ Section

At Michael Best & Friedrich LLP, associate salaries vary by practice area and experience, typically ranging from $150,000 to $220,000 per year, plus bonuses.

Michael Best & Friedrich LLP operates 9 offices across the United States, including Milwaukee, Chicago, Denver, and Austin.

Michael Best & Friedrich LLP is recognized for corporate law, litigation, intellectual property, labor and employment, and regulatory counseling.

Yes, Michael Best & Friedrich LLP encourages pro bono service, with attorneys averaging over 20,000 pro bono hours annually.

At Michael Best & Friedrich LLP, the partnership track typically takes 7 to 10 years, with clear milestones and mentorship support.

Michael Best & Friedrich LLP provides flexible hybrid work arrangements, allowing attorneys to work remotely up to three days per week.

Michael Best & Friedrich LLP uses proprietary AI analytics, cloud-based document management, and secure client portals for efficiency.

Michael Best & Friedrich LLP ranks in the Am Law 200 and receives top tier recognition from Chambers USA and Best Lawyers.

Michael Best & Friedrich LLP has 35% minority attorneys and 45% women attorneys, with active diversity initiatives and Mansfield Rule certification.

Yes, the Michael Best Foundation, established by Michael Best & Friedrich LLP, supports education, justice, and community development.

Michael Best & Friedrich LLP serves Fortune 500 companies, middle-market businesses, startups, nonprofits, and government entities.

Interested candidates should visit the careers page on Michael Best & Friedrich LLP’s website to submit applications and view openings.

Michael Best & Friedrich LLP typically requires 1,900 billable hours per year for associates, with flexibility for pro bono and non-billable work.

Yes, Michael Best & Friedrich LLP runs a 10-week summer associate program in major offices, offering substantive work and mentorship.

Michael Best & Friedrich LLP has received awards for workplace culture, including “Top Workplace” and “Best Law Firm for Women” accolades.

Through the Best Academy, Michael Best & Friedrich LLP provides over 100 CLE programs annually, both in-person and online.

Michael Best & Friedrich LLP is committed to reducing carbon emissions, aiming for net-zero by 2030 through energy efficiency and offsets.

Yes, Michael Best & Friedrich LLP handles cross-border transactions through its membership in the World Law Group and its own global network.

Benefits at Michael Best & Friedrich LLP include health insurance, 401(k) match, parental leave, tuition reimbursement, and mental health support.

Michael Best & Friedrich LLP and its foundation sponsor charitable events, provide pro bono legal services, and encourage volunteerism among employees.

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