Michael P. Karst

Associate

Michael devotes his practice to litigating claims on behalf of employers involved in termination, wage/hour, and labor disputes. He also advises clients on a wide variety of day-to-day workplace concerns, including leave management, accommodations, and payroll practices. In addition, Michael helps employers navigate U.S. immigration laws and secure work visas and permanent resident status (“green cards”) for their employees.  

Michael routinely defends claims involving the Fair Labor Standards Act, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, and comparable state laws. Michael takes a practical approach to litigation that considers the most efficient method to resolving claims either through resolution or early motions to dismiss. When matters do not resolve, Michael is an accomplished trial attorney who feels comfortable taking a case to verdict. 

Prior to joining KWW, Michael worked at a local labor-side law firm where he gained insight on how employers can avoid disputes before they occur. Michael’s experience also provides him with practical knowledge on how and when to negotiate with employees and their attorneys.

Michael prides himself on the personal attention given to each client. He strives to return phone calls and emails promptly and ensures that he keeps clients up to date on the status of their matters. Michael also understands that workplace questions can arise at any time. For that reason, Michael is happy to schedule phone calls and meetings outside normal business hours to ensure that all client needs are met.

Other Personal Background Information and Interests

Michael is a native of the small town of Huntington, Indiana, which is most known for being the birthplace of former Vice President Dan Quayle. Michael is the latest of five generations of attorneys from his family, and his grandfather’s briefcase sits next to Michael’s desk as a reminder of his family’s love of the law. In his free time, Michael is an avid basketball fan of the Butler University Bulldogs and Cleveland Cavaliers. Michael and his family reside in Copley Township.

Education
  • Butler University, B.A. Electronic Media & Political Science, with honors, 2010
  • The University of Akron School of Law, J.D. cum laude, 2013
    Bar Admissions
    • Supreme Court of Ohio
    • U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio
    • U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio
    Professional Activities and Recognition
    • Ohio Super Lawyers, Rising Star 2017-Present
    • Secretary, Akron Bar Association, 2023-Present
    • Member, Akron Bar Association Labor & Employment Section, 2013-Present
    • Member, Ohio State Bar Association Labor & Employment Section, 2023-Present
    • Member, Akron Bar Association Human Resources Committee, 2017, 2023
    • Vice President of Membership, Akron Bar Association, 2020-2022
    • Board of Directors, Ohio Association for Justice, 2018-2020
    Publications and Presentations
    • Navigating the Multilingual Workforce, 2024
    • Non-Compete Agreements in 2024 and Beyond, 2024
    • Artificial Intelligence: Useful Tool or Downfall of the Legal Profession?, 2024
    • A Conversation About Select Issues in Employment Law, 2024
    • Investigations at Work that Work: Conducting Effective Workplace Investigations, 2024
    • Navigating Issue 2: What Employers Need to Know About Ohio’s Marijuana Legalization, 2023
    • New Form I-9: Compliance Updates & Refresher, 2023
    • A Conversation about the ADA and FMLA: “How Can We Help You?”, 2023
    • Proposed DOL Regulation Would Require Millions of Workers to Receive Raises or Overtime, 2023
    • NLRB Revises Test for Independent Contractor Classification, 2023
    Civic/Charitable Activities and Associations
    • Member, Copley Township Zoning Commission
    • Volunteer, Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank
    • Instructor, University of Akron School of Law Summer Trial Academy
    • Coach, University of Akron School of Law, Mock Trial Team
    • Judge, Ohio Center for Law-Related Education High School Mock Trial Competition