Administrative & Public Law

Michael’s prior experience in government means he has developed a broad expertise in public law issues, in particular how they relate to the functions of public bodies, policy development and law-making, and is well-versed in providing risk-based legal advice to senior policy officials and ministers on matters of the utmost sensitivity. He also gained substantial experience in both the litigation and risk-management of judicial review claims, and has appeared as counsel in applications for permission to bring such claims.

Michael is therefore well equipped to accept instructions in matters which directly or indirectly engage public law issues, on behalf of individuals, organisations, central or local government.

Regulatory, Professional Discipline & Business Crime

Whilst posted at HM Treasury, Michael advised the Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) on many of the operational aspects of financial and counter-terror sanctions. He also advised the department more widely on the policy aspects of sanctions, and assisted in the drafting and progression through Parliament of sanctions legislation, both in the context of implementing EU sanctions obligations and preparing the UK’s autonomous sanctions regimes for implementation post-EU Exit.

Michael accepts instructions on behalf of a variety of regulators, including the Nursing and Midwifery Council, where he has a growing practice in fitness to practice proceedings.

Court of Protection

Michael accepts instructions across the full range of Court of Protection proceedings, including adult health and social care, deprivation of liberty applications, mental capacity, medical treatment and best interests applications. He has been instructed by local authorities and the Office of the Public Guardian, as applicant, respondent and interested party.