JCJ Law Group is proud to announce that Michael Wright has joined our firm as Senior Counsel. Just as exciting, Michael was recently presented with the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award by Marquis Who’s Who, one of the highest recognitions given to professionals who have made a lasting impact in their fields. With decades of experience as a federal prosecutor, Air Force officer, and leader in national intelligence operations, Michael brings a rare combination of skills and grit to our practice.
A career defined by service and leadership
Michael Wright’s professional journey has never been ordinary. He was the first in his family to attend a service academy. He graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy with a bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Engineering. From there, he worked on projects that helped shape U.S. aerospace and defense systems, including the space shuttle main engines and NASA’s Space Station program.
After serving as a Captain in the Air Force, Michael earned his MBA at Pepperdine University and his law degree from Cornell Law School, where he was a member of the Cornell Law Review. This mix of engineering, business, and legal training laid the foundation for a career that has spanned both technical innovation and courtroom litigation.
Three decades at the Department of Justice
Michael went on to spend nearly 30 years as a federal prosecutor at the U.S. Department of Justice and multiple U.S. Attorney’s Offices, including Houston, Miami, and Washington, D.C. Over his career, he prosecuted more than 75 trials, argued before appellate courts, and took on high-profile corruption and narcotics cases. His work led to the convictions of several corrupt public officials, including a judge, a chief of police, and a mayor.
Michael also held senior leadership roles, including Criminal Chief, Chief of the Narcotics Section, Chief of the Major Crimes Section, and Regional Director of the Southwest Region. In these positions, he coordinated major prosecutions across multiple jurisdictions, ensuring complex cases were handled with precision and fairness.
Leading national intelligence operations
Michael also made his mark in national security. Between 2022 and 2023, he served as Acting Director of the OCDETF Fusion Center in Virginia, the leading intelligence-sharing hub for law enforcement in the U.S. Managing 200+ personnel from 24 agencies, he oversaw operations that generated actionable intelligence against transnational criminal organizations.
One of his most defining moments came when federal officers were shot in Puerto Rico. Under his leadership, the Fusion Center provided key investigative leads and financial tracking data to support the investigation, a shining example of his ability to manage critical situations where lives and public safety were on the line.
Lifetime achievement recognition
The Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes professionals who have made outstanding contributions to their industries and communities. Michael’s selection reflects not just his courtroom victories or leadership titles, but his unwavering commitment to public service. Over the years, he has earned commendations from both the Department of Justice and the U.S. Air Force, underscoring the impact of his work and the values of integrity.
Continuing the mission at JCJ Law Group
Now retired from federal service, Michael Wright has chosen to begin his next chapter with JCJ Law Group, where he will focus on medical litigation. His decades of courtroom experience and his reputation for tackling tough, high-stakes cases make him a powerful ally for our clients.
At JCJ Law Group, we pride ourselves on taking on the cases others avoid, and Michael’s career is proof that he thrives in those kinds of fights. His presence on our team strengthens our ability to cut through the noise, push back against powerful opponents, and demand results for the people we represent. We are proud to welcome him to our team and excited to see the impact he will have on our clients and our community.
At JCJ Law Group, we don’t just play the game: we change the rules. With Michael Wright on board, we’re sharper, stronger, and hungrier than ever to fight for what our clients are owed.
