Michael Aldana

Michael Aldana is the managing partner and chair of the Executive Committee at Quarles, based in Milwaukee. He leads the firm’s short- and long-term strategy and oversees daily operations. He fosters an innovative, client-focused culture grounded in respect, inclusion, collaboration, and steady growth across offices.

Michael earned a J.D. from the University of Michigan Law School in 1990 and a B.A. from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 1987. He also completed executive programs at the University of Notre Dame, Mendoza College of Business, and Harvard Law School Executive Education.

Michael advises employers in all areas of labor and employment law. He works closely with clients to align workplace strategies with long-term business goals. He serves as outside general counsel for some clients, guiding crisis management, public relations, and interactions with regulatory bodies and law enforcement.

Michael’s practice includes class-action defense, employment litigation, wage-and-hour compliance, internal investigations, and counseling. He works with higher education institutions, research organizations, and financial institutions. He appears before federal courts, including the U.S. Courts of Appeals for the Seventh and Fourth Circuits.

Michael is admitted to practice in Indiana and Wisconsin and before multiple U.S. District Courts. He is fluent in Spanish. He is active in many professional groups and serves on several boards, including civic and education organizations in Milwaukee.

Michael Aldana has received many honors, including Best Lawyers in America® and Wisconsin Super Lawyers®. He was named Best Lawyers® “Lawyer of the Year” in 2020 for Labor Law – Management. He has also been recognized by BizTimes Milwaukee, Attorney Intel, and Lawyers of Color for leadership and influence.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Quarles & Brady LLP
• Member, National Association of College and University Attorneys
• Board of Directors, Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce
• Member, State Bar of Wisconsin
• Member, Milwaukee Bar Association
• Member, American Bar Association, Labor and Employment Section
• Fellow, American Bar Foundation

Licensed State

• Indiana
• Wisconsin

Education

• University of Michigan Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Wisconsin
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges