Career
Michael has a particular specialism in the international movement of children, which he focuses upon in the context of all of the areas of family law in which he practices (specific details of which are set out below). He also acts in private and public law children cases involving serious issues including allegations of domestic and sexual abuse, and allegations of alienating behaviours.
Michael has appeared in most of the leading cases in this field. He has represented parties (including parents, children and non-Governmental organisations) in the Court of Appeal and the UK Supreme Court in cases involving a diverse range of issues from the human rights implications of government immigration policy to jurisdictional issues concerning children and the application of the 1980 Hague Convention.
He has particular experience in jurisdictional issues that arise following the international movement of children and in cases where it is proposed that a child should relocate abroad. He represents parties in cases involving serious allegations of domestic abuse, including alienating behaviours.
Michael also acts for parents and children in cases involving serious medical issues, both under the inherent jurisdiction and in the Court of Protection. He is frequently instructed to advise parties in relation to contemplated or ongoing mediation and has experience of representing parents within mediation where they wish to have counsel present within or on the fringes of discussions.