Michael A. Wills, LLB, BA, Lawyer

Practice Areas

Michael’s practice spans a broad range of employment and labour law matters, including:

• Wrongful dismissal litigation and severance negotiations
• Constructive dismissal claims
• Human rights cases and workplace discrimination
• Collective bargaining and grievance arbitration
• Employment contracts and termination clauses
• Occupational health and safety compliance and charges
• Labour board proceedings and union avoidance strategies

In residential real estate law, Michael advises clients on purchase and sale agreements, title issues, and deposit disputes, ensuring smooth and secure transactions.

Professional Journey

Michael began his legal career in 1995 as an articling student. He was called to the Ontario Bar in 1997 and became a partner in 2002. Throughout his career, Michael has built a reputation as a trusted advocate for his clients, representing a diverse range of businesses and individuals in complex legal matters.

Michael’s strategic legal counsel has guided employers through:

• Negotiating over 25 collective agreements, including high-stakes disputes involving large employee groups.
• Resolving employment disputes at the Ontario Human Rights Tribunal, Workplace Safety and Insurance Tribunal, and through arbitration.
• Leading policy development initiatives on workplace safety, diversity, and compliance.

One of his notable achievements includes successfully obtaining an injunction to resolve a border blockade that threatened $50 million in daily trade, coordinating with stakeholders under urgent conditions to secure a favorable outcome.

Education

Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) – University of Calgary, 1994

Bachelor of Arts in Sociology (B.A.) – University of Calgary, 1991

Called to the Ontario Bar, 1997

Community Involvement

Michael is deeply committed to his community and legal education. He has previously served as a:

• Board Member for the Essex Law Association
• Board member for the Rotary Club of Windsor (1918)
• Coach, Board Member, and mentor for competitive mock trials with the Ontario Justice Education Network (OJEN)
• Arbitrator and judge for university moot court and arbitration competitions

Michael’s dedication extends to mentoring young legal professionals and contributing to equality of opportunity, diversity, and inclusion initiatives.

Professional Memberships

Law Society of Ontario

Essex Law Association

Core Competencies

Employment law and compliance

Labour relations and collective bargaining

Policy development and training

Risk management and dispute resolution

Equity, diversity, and inclusion guidance

Strategic legal analysis and advocacy

Client-Centered Philosophy

Michael’s approach to law emphasizes practical solutions tailored to the unique challenges of each client. Whether advocating for employees in wrongful dismissal cases or guiding employers through complex labour relations, Michael is committed to achieving ethical, effective, and equitable outcomes.