EDUCATION:

Michael is a graduate of the University of Western Ontario, having received both his Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree and his Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree at Western.  He was called to the Bar in 1995 and maintains his skills by attending continuing education programs offered by the Law Society of Upper Canada.

EXPERIENCE:

Michael has practised law in St. Catharines since 1995.  Currently, he is a member of the corporate/commercial team at Lancaster, Brooks & Welch.  In this capacity, Michael provides advice regarding the various methods of carrying on a business.  He also assists in the incorporation and organization of companies and drafts security agreements, shareholder agreements, leases and other documents of a corporate or commercial nature for his clients.  Michael also provides services as a registered trademark agent.

Michael handles residential and commercial real estate transactions, including the preparation of deeds and mortgages.  Estate Administration and Estate planning, including the drafting of wills and powers of attorney are also within Michael's experience.

Michael was admitted to the partnership at Lancaster, Brooks & Welch in November, 2000.

In 2008, Michael received the Business Link's 40 Under Forty Business Achievement Award, which is given to future leaders under the age of 40 who consistently make their mark in business and regularly contribute to their respective communities.

ASSOCIATIONS:

o        Member - Law Society of Upper Canada (1995-present)

o        Member - Lincoln County Law Association (1995-present)

o        C.A.W. Referral Lawyer

o        Prepaid Legal Services Co-operating Lawyer

o        Director and Cabinet Member - United Way, St. Catharines & District (2002-2008) and Past Chair of the Board (2004/2005)

o        Director - Niagara College Foundation (2000-present) and Chair of the Board (2005/2006)

o        Session Member and Trustee - Presbyterian Church of Canada (1995-present)

o        Member - Business Network International (1998-2004)

o        Director of Victorian Order of Nurses Niagara (2000-2002)

o        Director - Small Business Club Niagara (2007-present)

o        St. Catharines and Thorold Chamber of Commerce Bonspiel Committee (2007-2008)

o        Pelham Minor Baseball Coach

o        Niagara Falls Curling Club – “Little Rocks” Coach

o        St. Catharines Business Enterprise Centre Summer Company Program – Mentor (2007-present)

AREAS OF LAW:

Corporate, Commercial, Real Estate, Estate Planning, Estate Administration, and Intellectual Property