Michael’s advocacy career began when he obtained his Higher Rights of Audience (Criminal Proceedings) almost immediately after qualification as a solicitor in 2013. He initially practised as a criminal defence and duty solicitor, appearing on a daily basis in the Magistrate’s Court and frequently in the Crown Court. From late 2014 to early 2020, he was a Lawyer and then Senior Lawyer at the Independent Officer for Police Conduct (IOPC), where he advised on a wide range of legal issues in cases of the utmost complexity and seriousness. He continued to practice and develop his advocacy while at the IOPC, obtaining his Higher Rights of Audience (Civil Proceedings) in 2017.

Michael's range of expertise and experience is impressive: he has appeared in countless cases in criminal and civil courts and before police disciplinary panels, coroner’s inquests and mental health tribunals. His advocacy has drawn judicial praise in the Administrative Court.

Michael's commitment to advocacy at the highest level led almost inevitably to the Bar where he was called in 2020. He now serves on the Attorney General’s C Panel of experts (North Eastern Region).