Michael J. Cohen

Michael J. Cohen is a shareholder with more than 35 years of experience handling complex commercial litigation in state and federal courts. Recognized as one of Wisconsin’s leading business litigators, he has secured favorable verdicts and appellate outcomes in high-stakes disputes. His practice includes non-compete and restrictive covenants, contract disputes, shareholder matters, business torts, employment litigation, and environmental and toxic tort claims.

Cohen earned his B.A. from the University of Wisconsin in 1983 and his J.D. from Marquette University Law School in 1986. He is admitted to practice in Wisconsin, the U.S. District Courts for the Eastern and Western Districts of Wisconsin, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit. His academic background and decades of courtroom practice give him a strong foundation for navigating challenging litigation and complex coverage disputes across multiple industries.

Cohen has played a leading role in significant insurance coverage matters involving asbestos, environmental liabilities, and bad faith claims. His work has influenced outcomes in Wisconsin and surrounding states. In addition to his trial and appellate practice, he is widely respected as a mediator, with more than a decade of experience successfully resolving complex commercial and insurance disputes. His facilitative approach, combined with deep trial knowledge, allows him to guide parties toward effective and efficient settlements.

Michael J. Cohen’s professional recognition includes listings in Best Lawyers in America®, Chambers USA, and Wisconsin Super Lawyers®, where he has been named among the Top 25 Milwaukee and Top 50 Wisconsin lawyers. Cohen has also earned awards for appellate advocacy and service to the bar. He remains active in legal organizations, frequently lectures on litigation and mediation, and continues to serve as a trusted advocate and neutral in complex business disputes.

Law Office Affiliations

• Shareholder, Meissner Tierney Fisher & Nichols S.C.
• Member, State Bar of Wisconsin
• Former President, Milwaukee Bar Association
• Former Board Member, Milwaukee Bar Foundation
• Master, Thomas E. Fairchild Inn of Court
• Member, American Bar Association, Tort Law & Insurance, Business Litigation
• Member, American Bar Foundation
• Member, Defense Research Institute
• Member, Wisconsin Defense Counsel
• Fellow, Wisconsin Law Foundation

Licensed State

• Wisconsin

Education

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

Awards & Badges