Michelle Wagner Ebben

Michelle Wagner Ebben is a partner at Michael Best & Friedrich LLP, who advises clients on real estate law, construction, and project development matters across Wisconsin. She represents private companies, public institutions, investors, developers, and contractors in complex transactions and disputes. Her work includes purchase and sale agreements, leasing, sale-leaseback transactions, zoning and land-use approvals, public financing, and public-private partnerships. She also negotiates and drafts construction contracts, easements, licenses, and rights-of-entry agreements. Clients rely on her to manage risk, solve problems early, and keep major projects moving forward.

Michelle earned her J.D. from Case Western Reserve University School of Law in 2009. She received her B.A. in Political Science and History from the University of Wisconsin – Madison in 2006, graduating magna cum laude. Her education provides a strong foundation in legal research, writing, and analysis, which supports her practical approach to client service.

Michelle has guided clients through environmentally sensitive site acquisitions, tax incremental financing arrangements, and large mixed-use developments. She advises higher education and public sector clients on bond financing, requests for proposals, development agreements, and compliance with open records and bidding laws. She has supported renewable energy and utility contractors with contract strategy and multi-site project standards across the Midwest. Her experience also includes condominium and multifamily housing developments, retail site selection, and refinancing of residential communities.

Michelle has helped clients resolve construction-related disputes, including contractor claims, design defect matters, lien issues, and insurance coverage questions throughout her career. She works to find practical solutions through negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or litigation when needed.

Michelle Wagner Ebben helps clients avoid delays, control costs, and protect long-term value by combining careful drafting with clear communication. Her goal is to deliver clear guidance at every stage of a project, from initial planning and entitlement to completion and occupancy. She remains committed to providing strategic advice that supports growth, strengthens communities, and advances successful development outcomes for her clients across industries.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Michael Best & Friedrich LLP
• Member of Board of Directors, Milwaukee Bar Association
• Member, American Bar Association
• Member, Wisconsin Bar Association

Licensed State

• Wisconsin

Education

• Case Western Reserve University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Wisconsin – Madison
  BA in Political Science and History

Awards & Badges