Mike began his career on the staff of U.S. Senator Bob Dole in Washington, D.C., where he conducted legislative and Judiciary Committee research. He later served as an officer in the United States Marine Corps (TBS 4-85) before founding Wolivar & Associates, Inc. in 1995.

Under his leadership, Wolivar & Associates, Inc. grew into a respected boutique practice specializing in complex investigations, protective intelligence, and discreet specialized services.

At its peak, the firm employed up to 14 full-time investigative professionals, with Mike directing their work and overseeing engagements requiring expertise across multiple disciplines.

Mike also developed the SafeWatch Team™, a specialized resource for protective intelligence and discreet investigations. The core members of the tight-knit team have worked together for over 14 years.

SafeWatch was created for sensitive situations requiring experienced judgment, close coordination, and a high degree of confidentiality. The work often required Mike to bring together investigative and protective capabilities while maintaining a tightly controlled circle around the client and the matter.

For more than 30 years, Mike has advised single-family offices, principals, security leadership, general counsel, and political donor consultants on consequential and highly sensitive matters where discretion, judgement, and confidentiality were essential. He was also engaged by California State University, UCLA, UC Santa Barbara, and the University of California Office of the President regarding confidential investigations.

Mike has extensive experience in California civil litigation, serving as a key investigator and trusted advisor in dozens of high-value, high-stakes matters. Working alongside many of California’s leading trial attorneys, he has helped develop critical facts, evaluate evidence, interview witnesses, and provide strategic investigative support through trial.

Earlier in his career, Mike conducted claims and litigation investigations for major insurance carriers and leading third-party administrators, including Sedgwick CMS and Gallagher Bassett. The work reinforced an analytical discipline, objectivity, and attention to detail that continue to inform his advisory work today. He also assisted private investigator Jim L. on numerous specialty assignments for Gaven De Becker & Associates.

Throughout his career, Mike has developed long-standing relationships with accomplished professionals in investigations, protective intelligence, security, cybersecurity, forensic accounting, risk management, and other specialized disciplines. When expertise is required, he recommends proven private-sector professionals whose capabilities he knows through firsthand experience and whom he trusts.

Importantly, Mike retains current investigative and security qualifications that allow him to become directly involved when appropriate. In especially sensitive situations, that capability can help maintain continuity and keep the circle of people entrusted with confidential information deliberately small.

Professional Credentials