Michael R. Wolford ’68

Michael Wolford, a 1968 graduate of the University at Buffalo law school, currently practices full time at The Wolford Law Firm. His journey began in Rochester, where he attended McQuaid Jesuit High School, followed by John Carroll University for his undergraduate studies. Wolford then pursued an MBA at UB, completing it in 1965. His interest in labor law during his MBA studies sparked his decision to attend law school. Choosing UB for both his MBA and law degrees was primarily due to its affordability. He married just before starting law school, with his wife working as a teacher.

The UB campus was located downtown on Eagle Street. He valued the immediate exposure to court proceedings, which inspired him to become a trial lawyer. His law school class, initially around 100 students, gradually decreased in size, fostering close relationships among the remaining classmates. Wolford actively participated in student activities, serving as chair of the moot court, as a student bar representative, and contributing to the establishment of the UB speakers’ program. The period was marked by the shifting social and political climate of the 1960s, particularly the Vietnam War. Wolford’s attempt to host a speaker on the war was vetoed by the university, highlighting the era’s contentious nature.

Wolford’s fondest memories include his moot court trips, winning a moot court competition and dinners at the Buffalo Club. His first child, Elizabeth, was born during his law school years, adding to the financial challenges he and his family faced. Despite these difficulties, he has no regrets.

Upon graduation in 1968, Wolford joined the law firm of Jaeckle Fleischmann Kelly Swart and Augspurger, having been drawn to its prestige. Many of his peers secured employment early on. He credited UB for adequately preparing him for his legal career. He spent three years at his initial firm, benefiting from the mentorship of his law professors. After a period with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, he joined Nixon, Hargrave, Devans & Doyle, becoming the first UB graduate to be hired there. He remained at the firm for 21 years, witnessing an increase in UB graduates joining the firm. In 1993, he established The Wolford Law Firm.

His children, Elizabeth, John and Jim, have also pursued professional careers. Elizabeth is now a partner at his firm, John is an Air Force pilot and Jim also works at the law firm. He encouraged his children to follow his path, and two of them did.

Wolford advises new lawyers to associate themselves with firms or lawyers of integrity, emphasizing the importance of an ethical reputation. He also stresses the necessity of thorough preparation and hard work.