Michael received his law degree from Northeastern University School of Law, where he was a member of the Northeastern University Law Review, contributed to Extra Legal, the Law Review’s online publication, and participated in the Poverty Law & Practice Clinic. Through Northeastern’s cooperative legal education program, Michael gained hands-on experience in special education advocacy, public interest law, government service, and human rights, including through a placement with Massachusetts Advocates for Children.
Prior to law school, Michael earned his Bachelor of Arts from Saint Mary’s College of California. After college, he served with City Year, an AmeriCorps program, where he worked directly with third through fifth grade students and developed an early commitment to supporting children, families, and educational opportunity.
Michael began his legal career in education and disability rights. He worked as a Youth Rights Fellow at Disability Rights California, where he advocated for young people with disabilities in both the K-12 and higher education systems.
Michael later practiced in the student services and special education group of a respected California education law firm, where he represented school districts and local education agencies in special education and student matters. In that role, he advised on Individualized Education Programs, assessments, student discipline, disability accommodations, due process matters, and compliance with state and federal education laws.
That experience gives Michael a practical understanding of how schools operate and allows him to approach education disputes with insight into both the legal framework and the real-world challenges facing students, families, and educational institutions.
Michael also brings significant experience in public policy and government leadership. He previously served as Chief of Staff to two Nevada Lieutenant Governors, where he worked closely with legislators, state agencies, education leaders, and community stakeholders on a wide range of policy and governance matters.
Today, Michael’s work draws on his combined background in direct student service, special education advocacy, disability rights, education law, public policy, and systems leadership. He is committed to helping families understand their rights, evaluate their options, and move forward with clarity and confidence.
I know the special education process can feel overwhelming for families. Parents are often asked to make important decisions for their child while trying to understand unfamiliar legal requirements, school procedures, assessments, services, and timelines.
My goal is to help families understand the process, ask the right questions, and make informed decisions about their child’s education. I believe students and families deserve advocacy that is clear, practical, and compassionate, and I strive to help families feel prepared, supported, and heard.
