Michael F. Johnson

Associate

Michael Johnson combines rigorous analysis with clear, effective advocacy to help clients navigate California’s complex environmental laws and regulations.

Michael’s practice focuses on environmental and natural resources law. He has worked in both litigation and administrative contexts on matters involving the Clean Water Act and the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act. Before joining Downey Brand, Michael clerked for an Alaska trial court, where he doubled as court bailiff and worked on a wide range of civil and criminal litigation matters. This experience provided him valuable insight into the judicial decision-making process and continues to inform his approach to legal advocacy today.

Professional, Community And Pro Bono Involvement

  • California Lawyers Association, Environmental Law Section
  • Sacramento County Bar Association, Environmental Law Section
  • Public Interest Law Project, Lewis & Clark Law School, President, 2024 – 2025

Honors & Rankings

  • Clerkship, Judge Amanda L. Browning, First Judicial District of Alaska, 2025 – 2026
  • Cornelius Honor Society, Lewis & Clark Law School
  • Winner, Jeffrey G. Miller National Environmental Law Moot Court Competition 2025

Michael is originally from Orlando, FL. In his free time, he enjoys hiking, reading, cooking, listening to music, and spending time with friends and family.

Professional, Community And Pro Bono Involvement

  • California Lawyers Association, Environmental Law Section
  • Sacramento County Bar Association, Environmental Law Section
  • Public Interest Law Project, Lewis & Clark Law School, President, 2024 – 2025

Honors & Rankings

  • Clerkship, Judge Amanda L. Browning, First Judicial District of Alaska, 2025 – 2026
  • Cornelius Honor Society, Lewis & Clark Law School
  • Winner, Jeffrey G. Miller National Environmental Law Moot Court Competition 2025