Michael E. Covey

Attorney Michael Covey focuses his practice on the defense of serious felony matters in Wisconsin courts. While he has experience across a broad range of criminal cases, his work has concentrated on complex, high-exposure litigation involving allegations of homicide and sexual assault.

His practice in this area emphasizes intensive case investigation, detailed evidentiary review, and trial-level advocacy. Attorney Covey routinely handles cases that require careful analysis of forensic evidence, witness credibility, and constitutional issues, as well as extensive motion practice and pretrial litigation.

In addition to serious felony defense, Attorney Covey has experience representing clients in other criminal matters, including OWI offenses, drug charges, juvenile cases, battery, property crimes, and appellate matters. Across all case types, his practice reflects a trial-focused approach and individualized defense strategy based on the facts and procedural posture of each case.

Attorney Michael Covey has practiced criminal defense law since 2003. He earned his law degree from the University of Wisconsin Law School and has spent his career focused exclusively on criminal defense work in Wisconsin courts.
A significant portion of Attorney Covey’s career has included representing indigent defendants and accepting court-appointed matters, work that has required extensive courtroom experience and familiarity with the full range of criminal procedure. Over time, he developed a practice centered on trial-level litigation and complex felony matters.

After operating the Covey Law Office for approximately 18 years, Attorney Covey closed his solo practice in 2023 and joined Chirafisi Law Office. He now continues his work as part of Chirafisi Anderson, S.C., where he brings a long-standing trial background and experience handling high-stakes criminal cases across Wisconsin.

Attorney Michael Covey has received multiple peer-recognized honors for his work in criminal defense and his service to indigent defendants in Wisconsin courts.

He has been recognized by the Wisconsin Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers with several awards, including the Hanson Memorial Advocate’s Prize (2023) and the Kuchler Nicholson Stilling Award (2023), honoring excellence in criminal defense advocacy. He is also a recipient of the David C. Niblack Award (2019), recognizing outstanding contributions to criminal defense practice.

Attorney Covey’s commitment to public service and pro bono representation has been recognized by the State Bar of Wisconsin, which named him to the Pro Bono Honor Society multiple times between 2014 and 2020. In 2019, he was also the first recipient of the Danny Berkos Award from the Wisconsin State Public Defender, acknowledging exceptional service to indigent clients.

Earlier in his career, Attorney Covey was named Warrior of the Year (2011) by the Dane County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association in recognition of his trial advocacy. He earned that award a second time in 2024.