Michael H. Schlueter

Michael H. Schlueter is a Hawai’i attorney with a broad practice in criminal defense, family law, civil litigation, AOAO representation, construction disputes, foreclosure proceedings, and regulatory compliance. As a founding partner of his firm, he provides clients with courtroom experience, practical advice, and steady advocacy in complex legal matters.

Michael’s education includes legal study at Gonzaga University School of Law, where he earned his law degree in 2003. He also studied business administration and marketing at John Carroll University, a background that supports his understanding of organizational needs, client communication, financial concerns, and practical problem-solving in legal representation. He began his legal career in Cincinnati as an associate attorney with Lerner, Sampson & Rothfuss, L.P.A. In that role, he appeared before federal bankruptcy courts in Ohio and Kentucky, gaining early litigation experience and familiarity with formal court procedure, creditor matters, disciplined advocacy, and careful case preparation.

After relocating his practice to Hawai’i, Michael worked with Carlsmith Ball LLP before joining the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney for the County of Hawai’i. As a deputy prosecuting attorney, he handled serious narcotic, drug trafficking, firearm, and felony cases while developing extensive trial skills and courtroom judgment. During more than seven years of public service, he served the people of Hawai’i County and concluded his prosecutorial tenure as co-supervisor of the Kona office. That experience strengthened his ability to evaluate evidence, prepare cases thoroughly, negotiate effectively, and understand criminal matters from multiple perspectives.

Michael H. Schlueter’s courtroom background includes numerous evidentiary hearings in Family Court and civil litigation, as well as jury and bench trials across diverse legal disciplines. He helps clients by explaining risks, building clear strategies, presenting strong arguments, and pursuing resolutions that protect their rights and long-term interests. He has also contributed to the legal community as past president of the West Hawai’i Bar Association and as a Family Court delegate to the State of Hawai’i bench bar conference. Licensed in Hawai’i, Ohio, and Kentucky, he brings professional leadership and broad legal experience to client service.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Schlueter, Kwiat & Bowman LLLP
• Member, Hawaii State Bar Association
• Member, Ohio State Bar Association
• Member, Kentucky Bar Association

Licensed State

• Hawaii
• Ohio
• Kentucky

Education

• Gonzaga University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• John Carroll University
  BS in Business Administration & Marketing

Awards & Badges