Prior to moving to the Hudson Valley in 2005, he worked in small and mid-sized law firms in Manhattan where he specialized in all aspects of criminal law with an emphasize on criminal trials, criminal appeals and post-conviction motions like habeas corpus, section 440 motions and section 2255/2254 motions. In addition to criminal law, over the past 20 years. Court Admissions and Associations and bar memberships include the New York State Bar Association, Criminal Justice Section, Entertainment, Arts and Sports Law Section, the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, and the American Bar Association. He is a former member of the New York City Bar Association where he sat on the Criminal Law Committee. Michael has also served on the New York State Court of Appeals pro bono Panel, The Appellate Division, First Department's Assigned Counsel Plan, and the Criminal Justice Act Panel for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. In 2005, Michael was honored with a Proclamation from the New York City Council recognizing him for his years of pro bono representation of indigent clients in New York City. Michael holds a B.A. in Political Science from The George Washington University, a M.A.T. in History and Social Science from Bard College and a J.D. from the St. John's University School of Law. Prior legal experience includes: Barrett, Gravante Carpinello & Stern, LLP {now merged with Boise, Schiller & Flexner} NY, NY (associate); Hoffman & Pollok, LLP, NY, NY (of counsel); Allegaert, Berger & Vogel, NY, NY (of counsel); Marvin and Marvin, PLLC, Rhinebeck, NY (of counsel).