About Michael
Michael Wooley is an accomplished immigration attorney based in Midland, Michigan, with over 25 years of experience in employment-based immigration law. His practice focuses on assisting U.S. employers and foreign professionals across various sectors, including healthcare, manufacturing, higher education, and information technology. Wooley specializes in handling the requirements of non-immigrant and immigrant business visas, particularly in areas such as PERM filings and National Interest Waivers. His extensive knowledge has led to exceptional success in defending clients against USDOL PERM audits and effectively interfacing with immigration-related federal agencies. In addition to his work with businesses, Wooley has a proven track record in representing clients in immigration appeals and immigration court.
His expertise extends to professional and semi-professional sports, where he assists athletes in securing the necessary visas to compete in the United States. This diverse range of services makes him a valuable resource for both employers and individuals seeking to navigate the intricate immigration landscape. Michael earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Michigan Law School in 1993, following a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Central Michigan University in 1988. Before embarking on his legal career, he served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Ecuador, where he became fluent in Spanish. This experience not only enriched his cultural understanding but also enhanced his ability to communicate effectively with clients from diverse backgrounds. In March 2016, he joined Warner Norcross & Judd LLP as a partner, practicing in the firm's Midland office.
Prior to this role, he chaired the immigration law practice at Braun Kendrick, further solidifying his reputation in the field. Michael is deeply engaged in the Great Lakes Bay Region, serving on the board of directors for New Dimensions, a vocational rehabilitation center in Bay City. The Japanese Cultural Center, Tea House and Gardens in Saginaw. He has been a Great Lakes Bay regional ambassador since 2008, demonstrating his commitment to community service. His involvement extends to local governance, having served as a city commissioner for Bay City, where he established strong roots in the community. As a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association, the State Bar of Michigan, and the Bay County and Saginaw County Bar Associations, Michael remains active in the legal community.
His work in immigration law has garnered recognition from Michigan Super Lawyers and The Detroit News. He has received the prestigious Martindale-Hubbell Client Satisfaction Award twice, highlighting his dedication to client service. A published author, he has also made numerous television appearances discussing immigration topics. In March 2024, Michael joined Varnum LLP as a partner, further enhancing the firm’s immigration practice and strengthening its ability to guide businesses and their executives through the complex immigration process.
