Michael is the only board certified criminal trial lawyer in New York State. Each lawyer certified by the National Board of Trial Advocacy must undergo an extensive and rigorous screening of his or her credentials.  The screening process consists of an assessment of their experience, judicial and peer references as well as an exam. 

In addition to being New York State's only board certified criminal lawyer, Michael was selected as a "Super Lawyer" in 2011.  Super Lawyers selects attorneys using a rigorous multiphase process.  Peer nominations and evaluations are combined with third party research.  Usually only 5% of lawyers in a geographical area are selected as Super Lawyers.  

Michael was an Assistant District Attorney with the Onondaga County District Attorney's Office from 1998 to 2008.  He was eventually promoted to Chief Assistant District Attorney in charge of the Homicide Bureau.