Firm News

Wiggin and Dana is deeply saddened to share the passing of our esteemed partner, colleague, and friend, Michael L. Miller. Mike passed away after a distinguished life of service, excellence and unwavering commitment to his clients, colleagues and community.

Mike was a partner in the firm’s Real Estate, Environmental, Construction and Facilities Department and led our Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) Practice Group. Over the course of nearly two decades, Mike built a reputation as one of the most respected EHS attorneys in the region. His practice spanned transactional support, compliance and risk counseling, and litigation —and his work touched more than 25 states across the country.

Before joining Wiggin and Dana, Mike served as an EHS professional with General Electric Company, bringing practical insight and technical depth to his legal career. He earned his J.D., summa cum laude, from Quinnipiac University School of Law, and his B.S.E. from the University of Michigan. During law school, he clerked in the Air Bureau of the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), laying the foundation for a career defined by environmental stewardship and legal precision.

Mike’s impact on the firm was both deep and enduring. He was a trusted advisor to clients navigating the complexities of environmental law, including the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, and the Connecticut Transfer Act. His counsel was sought in high-stakes litigation, regulatory enforcement and strategic transactions, where his practical insight and commitment to client service consistently stood out. Widely recognized for his proficiency in citizen-suit litigation and toxic tort defense, Mike was honored by Chambers USA for his contributions to the field. He also generously shared his knowledge through active involvement in professional organizations such as the American Bar Association, the Connecticut Bar Association, and the Connecticut Business and Industry Association’s Energy & Environment Council.

Beyond his professional achievements, Mike was a mentor, a leader and a friend. His thoughtful approach, deep integrity, and quiet strength left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege to work with him.

Robyn Abbate, Chair of the Real Estate, Environmental, Construction and Facilities Department, shared:

“Mike was the heart of our Environmental practice. His depth of knowledge, calm demeanor, and unwavering dedication made him a pillar of our team and a trusted advisor to so many. More than that, he was a dear friend. His absence leaves a profound void, but his legacy will continue to guide us.”

Mike is survived by his loving family, who were the center of his world. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the colleagues he inspired, and the firm he helped shape.

We will miss Mike deeply. His memory will remain a guiding light for all of us at Wiggin and Dana.