Michael Chen concentrates his practice on immigration and international business. He represents U.S. and foreign-owned companies, including clients in the biomedical, manufacturing and distribution, commercial sales, information technology, hospitality, and sports and entertainment industries.
Michael has developed corporate immigration policy guidelines for his clients, as well as onboarding and termination procedures. He has advised on the potential immigration consequences of corporate restructurings and other workforce changes. He has also prepared employment-related visa petitions and applications for permanent residence. He has counseled companies on compliance with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, federal and state labor departments, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and other government agencies.
International clients have also turned to Michael for help expanding in the United States. He has assisted companies in integrating top management and other teams into new facilities in multiple states. He has also advised on securing incentives and grants, tax credits, and special assessment districts. The projects he has advised on include corporate headquarters and research and development centers.
Michael is a leader in the Charlotte region on Asian American issues, including through his service as president of the Charlotte Taiwanese American Association. He also serves on the leadership team of the North Carolina Bar Association’s International Practice Section. He is fluent in conversational Chinese (Mandarin and Taiwanese).
In addition, Michael is an adjunct instructor in Central Piedmont Community College's certified paralegal program.
Prior to joining Parker Poe, Michael led the immigration team at a large national law firm. He is also a former assistant district attorney for Mecklenburg County, serving as the county's first Asian American prosecutor.