Kelly M. Fortier

Kelly M. Fortier is a Wisconsin immigration lawyer and partner at Michael Best & Friedrich LLP who advises employers on US immigration, global mobility, and workforce compliance. She works with organizations ranging from Fortune 500 companies to start-ups on hiring foreign nationals and transferring employees across borders. Her practice includes H-1B, L-1, E-2, PERM labor certification, employment-based green cards, National Interest Waivers, and immigration planning connected to corporate transactions. She further counsels employers on Form I-9 and employment authorization compliance.

Kelly earned her B.A. from the University of Wisconsin – Madison. She later received her J.D. magna cum laude from Loyola University Chicago School of Law. During law school, she served as Executive Lead Articles Editor of the Loyola University Law Journal. Her academic record reflects a strong foundation in legal research, writing, and analysis that supports her work in complex employment-based immigration matters.

Kelly is admitted to practice in Wisconsin and before the US District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin. She is a member of the American Bar Association and previously served as Wisconsin Chapter Chair of the American Immigration Lawyers Association. She further served on the organization’s Board of Governors. Her professional involvement includes public policy, community leadership, and immigration-related education for employers and other professionals.

Kelly M. Fortier has received repeated recognition for her immigration practice. Chambers USA has recognized her as a leading immigration lawyer, and Best Lawyers has named her Milwaukee-area “Lawyer of the Year” in Immigration Law multiple times. She has further been recognized by Wisconsin Law Journal, Law360, and Milwaukee Business Journal. Her work reflects sustained experience helping employers address immigration strategy, compliance, international staffing, and the legal requirements surrounding foreign national employees.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Michael Best & Friedrich LLP
• Member, Wisconsin Bar Association
• Member, American Bar Association
• Chair, Board of Governors, American Immigration Lawyers Association, Wisconsin Chapter (2011-2012)

Licensed State

• Wisconsin

Education

• Loyola University Chicago School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD) Magna Cum Laude
• University of Wisconsin
  Bachelor of Arts

Awards & Badges