In January, 2002, Michael entered the University of Memphis as a beginning freshman, majoring in English and History, graduating Summa Cum Laude in August of 2004. Two weeks later, Michael began law school, also at the University of Memphis, obtaining his Juris Doctor in December, 2006.
Shortly after graduation, Michael was hired as an associate attorney by the law firm of Rieves, Rubens & Mayton in West Memphis, Arkansas. He worked there until the dissolution of the firm in January 2009. He then opened his own office in Marion, Arkansas, where he continues to practice today. |
Michael has tried cases in front of juries in state and federal courts throughout the Mid-South. He has obtained favorable jury verdicts totaling over half a million dollars for such issues as employee discrimination, breach of contract, conversion, fraud, and other civil issues. He has also successfully defended clients in civil cases against plaintiffs seeking damages upwards of a quarter million dollars. Michael recognizes that in our system of justice, every person is entitled to a fair trial, and he works hard to see that every person’s rights are protected. He is guided by his belief that the preservation of the basic liberties enjoyed by all citizens depends on protecting the rights of ALL citizens, even those who are considered the worst of society. At the same time, Michael realizes that a trial is not always in the best interst of his clients. When that is the case, he works hard to obtain the most favorable outcome possible, whether it is a settlement, mediation, or other form of resolution. |
Michael is also an aggressive family lawyer, who has successfully protected the rights of both husbands and wives in divorce and custody matters. He is most proud though, of those cases were his work has helped to place neglected children in a better home, whether that home is with caring grandparents, or other guardians who are able to provide the care and love that young children need for safe and healthy lives. |
Michael was admitted to practice in all the courts of Arkansas and Tennessee in 2007. He is also admitted to practice in the United States District Court for the Eastern and Western Districts of Arkansas, and the Western District of Tennessee, as well as the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit. He is a Member of the American Bar Association, the Arkansas Bar Association, the Tennessee Bar Association, and the Crittenden County Bar Association.