After graduating from Emory University School of Law, Mike started his career in a large, international law firm, where he saw how the scales of justice could be skewed against those it is meant to protect. In early 2019, Mike took his first pro bono case in his hometown of Hagerstown, Maryland, and fought for people and causes he truly believes it. This case was the catalyst for The Russ Firm, LLC – a law firm built on fighting for people and the desire for change in the legal landscape.

Mike is a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, which is one of the most prestigious groups of trial lawyers in the United States. Membership is limited to attorneys who have won million and multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements. Fewer than 1% of U.S. lawyers are members. Mike has also been recognized by Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America, and recognized as one of the Top 40 Under 40 Lawyers by the National Black Lawyers and National Trial Lawyers. He has also been recognized as a Rising Star by Super Lawyers, and one of the Top 10 lawyers under 40 by the National Academy of Criminal Defense Lawyers.