Dallas Attorney Michelle Michaels Selected for DWLA Business Development Program

Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP lawyer to participate in 'The Pitch' initiative aimed at empowering women lawyers

Apr. 3, 2026 at 3:56am

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A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life photograph featuring a polished metallic gavel, a leather-bound legal notebook, and a pair of reading glasses arranged elegantly on a clean, monochromatic background, conceptually representing the legal profession and the business development skills that the DWLA program aims to cultivate.A prestigious business development program empowers women lawyers to grow their practices and advance their careers.Dallas Today

Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP announced that attorney Michelle Michaels of the firm's Dallas office has been selected to participate in the 2026 cohort of the Dallas Women Lawyers Association's (DWLA) Business Development Program called 'The Pitch.' The program is designed to help women lawyers develop essential business-building skills and advance their legal careers.

Why it matters

The DWLA's 'The Pitch' program is a nationally recognized initiative that seeks to address the persistent gender gap in law firm leadership and business development. By providing women lawyers with targeted training and networking opportunities, the program aims to empower them to grow their practices and take on more prominent roles within the legal industry.

The details

The 'The Pitch' program features a blend of virtual and in-person components, offering practical education and collaborative networking to elevate participants' business acumen. Michelle Michaels, who handles complex tort and general liability cases at Hinshaw's Dallas office, was selected for the 2026 cohort based on her 15 years of courtroom experience, strong record in litigation, and her nursing background which helps her effectively advocate for clients in medically complex cases.

  • The 'The Pitch' program is now in its fifth year.
  • Michelle Michaels has been selected to participate in the 2026 cohort.

The players

Michelle Michaels

An attorney in the Dallas office of Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP, with over 15 years of courtroom experience handling complex tort and general liability cases, including personal injury and premises liability.

Dallas Women Lawyers Association (DWLA)

A professional organization that runs the 'The Pitch' business development program, which is designed to help women lawyers develop essential skills and advance their legal careers.

Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP

A U.S.-based law firm with offices nationwide, known for its work in the insurance industry, financial services sector, professional services, and other highly regulated industries.

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What they’re saying

“We are proud to have Michelle Michaels represent Hinshaw in this prestigious program. Her selection is a testament to her exceptional legal skills and her commitment to professional development.”

— Unnamed Hinshaw spokesperson

What’s next

The 'The Pitch' program will run throughout 2026, with a mix of virtual and in-person sessions. At the end of the program, participants will have the opportunity to present their business development plans to a panel of judges.

The takeaway

The selection of Michelle Michaels for the DWLA's 'The Pitch' program highlights the firm's commitment to supporting the career advancement of women lawyers. By investing in the professional development of its female attorneys, Hinshaw is helping to address the gender imbalance in law firm leadership and business development.