Bloom Sluggett, PC is pleased to announce that Michael J. Watza has joined the firm, bringing more than three decades of legal experience focused on complex litigation, legislative strategy, and regulatory solutions for public and private sector clients across Michigan and beyond.
Recognized as a Martindale-Hubbell AV® Preeminent™ attorney, a Super Lawyer since 2007, and a Detroit Business Top Lawyer in Energy, Government, and Product Liability, Mike has built a distinguished career at the intersection of law, government, technology, and infrastructure.
Mike’s practice centers on delivering strategic legal solutions in telecommunications (including cable, wireless, and broadband), municipal governance, energy, insurance, and gaming. He currently serves as Counsel to PROTEC, a consortium representing more than 100 Michigan municipalities, and to Merit Network, a nonprofit governed by Michigan’s public universities that has helped shape the nation’s digital infrastructure since 1966.
In addition to his legal practice, Mike has served on numerous boards and commissions. He chairs the International Municipal Lawyers Association’s Telecommunications Committee, the Novi Economic Development Corporation, and Panel #9 of the Michigan Attorney Grievance Commission. He also serves on the Michigan State Bar Government Law Section Council. Mike was appointed twice to the Michigan Gaming Control Board, serving for eight years under governors Granholm and Snyder.
His work in advancing municipal broadband access includes legal leadership on Michigan’s first Municipal Fiber-to-the-Premises Broadband Project and he continues as counsel on broadband development projects across the state. Mike has also been a registered Michigan lobbyist and has provided legislative testimony on a range of public policy issues.
Mike has taught at the Michigan State University College of Law and the MSU Institute for Public Utilities, sharing his knowledge in communications law, public utility policy, and legal ethics.
“We are thrilled to welcome Mike to Bloom Sluggett,” said Jeff Sluggett, President of Bloom Sluggett. “Mike brings an exceptional combination of legal acumen, practical experience, and a deep understanding of municipal law, infrastructure policy, and litigation. His addition not only enhances the capabilities of our team but also reinforces our ongoing commitment to delivering strategic, results-driven counsel to the public entities and communities we serve.”
Mike is admitted to practice in Michigan, multiple federal district and appellate courts, and the U.S. Supreme Court. With Mike’s addition, the firm has opened a new office located at 400 Renaissance Center, in the heart of Detroit.