Michelle Crockett is stepping into a role that not only expands her reach in labor and employment law but also strengthens the presence of a seasoned advocate in Detroit’s legal landscape. Honigman LLP has brought her on as a partner in its Labor Practice Group and Labor and Employment Department, positioning her at the center of critical legal discussions impacting workers and employers alike. With a career spanning 25 years, her track record speaks to both expertise and a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding employment law.
Crockett transitions from Miller Canfield, where she served as Deputy Executive Officer and Chief Diversity Officer, roles that reinforced her commitment to ensuring fair labor practices while navigating the evolving policies that affect workforces across industries. She has built a reputation as a formidable attorney who not only defends Fortune 500 companies but also works closely with public-sector clients to address employment-related claims. Her approach has been defined by diligence, a sharp legal mind, and an ability to handle cases involving harassment, retaliation, discrimination, malfeasance, and misappropriation of funds.
Leadership at Honigman recognizes the weight of her experience. Sean F. Crotty, Chair of Honigman’s Labor and Employment Department, makes clear what she brings to the table. “We’re thrilled to have a respected labor and employment leader like Michelle join our team at a time when employers across the country are looking for guidance on how to lawfully address emerging rules and regulations,” Crotty states. “Her sophisticated knowledge and experience advising organizations on these important issues will add tremendous value for our clients.” His statement underscores how her expertise will shape the firm’s work on labor issues at a time when workplaces are navigating shifts in regulatory compliance, diversity policies, and employee rights.
Her legal career is rooted in a commitment to advocacy. The cases she has handled extend beyond boardrooms and courtroom arguments; they influence workplace policies, employment rights, and the standards that govern fair treatment in the professional world. She has taken on internal investigations that involve serious allegations, ensuring accountability remains a priority. Her knowledge spans litigation and traditional labor law, giving her the ability to assist clients with grievances, arbitration hearings, collective bargaining, board governance, and due process hearings. With an ability to see the larger picture of labor relations while focusing on the specific needs of her clients, her approach strengthens both individuals and organizations seeking legal guidance.
Crockett’s litigation background demonstrates the range of her skill set. Managing cases in both federal and state courts requires a thorough understanding of legal strategy, and she has successfully navigated all stages of the process. Drafting pleadings, conducting witness interviews, arguing motions, and negotiating settlements are all part of her extensive experience. She has also first-chaired numerous trials, a responsibility that requires both precision and a command of employment law. Her work as an American Arbitration Association (AAA) arbitrator for employment matters on a national scale adds another layer to her legal impact, giving her insight into a broad range of employment disputes.
Her appointment to the Michigan Supreme Court’s State DEI Commission in 2022 signals recognition beyond her legal work. The intersection of diversity, equity, and inclusion with labor law has become increasingly significant, and her role on the commission underscores how these issues remain at the forefront of policy discussions. Her background as Chief Diversity Officer at Miller Canfield speaks to her ability to translate these discussions into actionable strategies, ensuring that legal frameworks reflect the evolving needs of workplaces.
Her educational foundation laid the groundwork for this trajectory. Earning a J.D. from Wayne State University School of Law and a B.A. from North Carolina State University set the stage for her legal career, equipping her with the tools to address complex legal issues. Her work over the past two and a half decades has been a testament to the ways in which labor law influences not only employers but also the everyday experiences of workers navigating their rights in professional environments.
As Crockett takes on this new role at Honigman, her focus remains on bringing expertise to critical labor and employment issues. The legal landscape continues to evolve, and her presence at the firm ensures that clients receive guidance rooted in experience and a commitment to equity in employment law. Honigman’s decision to bring her onto the team aligns with the firm’s commitment to strengthening its legal counsel at a time when businesses and public-sector clients must navigate an increasingly complex regulatory environment. Her work will play a role in shaping the conversations and legal strategies that define labor and employment law in Detroit and beyond.
With decades of experience, a strong foundation in litigation, and a history of shaping employment policies, Crockett’s addition to Honigman marks a significant moment for the firm. As labor laws shift and companies work to align themselves with changing regulations, her guidance will be instrumental in ensuring compliance and addressing workplace disputes. The work she has done so far has already set a precedent, and as she moves forward, her expertise will continue to leave an imprint on labor law, workplace policy, and the broader discussions surrounding equity in employment.
Detroit’s legal community recognizes the importance of seasoned voices in shaping labor law, and Crockett’s presence at Honigman reinforces that expertise matters. Her work as an attorney, an arbitrator, and a DEI advocate demonstrates the necessity of addressing employment challenges with both legal precision and a broader understanding of workforce equity. As she steps into this role, her ability to navigate these issues with clarity and impact ensures that her contributions to employment law will continue to resonate in legal spaces and workplace policies alike.
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