Michael W. Bowen

Michael serves as a strategic advisor and counselor to his clients, who range from private corporations to public companies in a variety of industries. He provides sage legal counsel on matters related to corporate governance, regulatory compliance, mergers and acquisitions, tax and economic development incentives, employment, and MBE and WBE certification. Michael also has comprehensive experience in real estate development, community development projects, construction, and property acquisitions and financing.

Michael listens to his clients’ goals and provides thoughtful action plans to help achieve them by tapping into his unique background, formed by working as a business lawyer and government relations professional. He often leverages Calfee’s deep bench of subject matter experts and his connections within the Ohio government to find the right solutions.

Michael’s knowledge of the political process, which he honed as the campaign manager for the former Cleveland mayor, among other roles, allows him to advise clients at the federal, state, and local levels of government. He works extensively with administrators, agencies, and legislators to advance his clients’ needs across multiple industries, including gaming and hospitality, entrepreneurship, primary and higher education, health care, housing, and pharmaceuticals.

Michael stays connected to the community around him by getting involved in local organizations; notably, he is on the Board of Directors for both the Presidents’ Council and Engage! Cleveland, and he serves on the Board of Trustees for the Shaker Schools Foundation and the Urban League of Greater Cleveland.

Michael was elected Partner in 2023 and serves on the firm's Associates Committee and its Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee.

Prior to joining Calfee, Michael served as a business litigator handling complex issues in breach of contract, class-action, employment, securities, and public law.

Honors & Recognitions

• The National Black Lawyers Top 40 Under 40
• Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch, Government Relations Practice (2021-2024)
• Ohio Super Lawyers, Ohio Rising Stars, Government Relations (2022-2023)

Education

J.D., Cleveland State University College of Law, Dean’s List, Cleveland State Law Review, Fredrick Douglass Moot Court, 2015

B.A., Miami University, 2009

Professional & Community

• The Presidents' Council, Board of Directors
• Engage! Cleveland, Board of Directors
• Shaker Schools Foundation, Board of Trustees
• Urban League of Greater Cleveland, Board of Trustees
• Ohio Lobbying Association, Member
• Judge John M. Manos Inn of Court, Associate
• Norman S. Minor Bar Association, Member
• Ohio State Bar Association, Member
• Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association, Member
• Bluecoats Inc., Member