Michael grew up north of Chicago. He received his B.A. from Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisconson in 1989 and a Juris Doctorate from the John Marshall Law School in Chicago in 1995. From 1995 through 1998 Michael practiced construction litigation law in Seattle, Washington as an associate with Barokas & Martin. In 1998 Michael moved to Hood River and joined Jaques, Sharp & Sherrerd as an associate. In 2000 he became a partner. Michael is licensed to practice law in Oregon State Court, Oregon Federal Court, Washington State Court, Western Washington Federal District Court, and the United States Court of Claims. Michael's areas of practice include family law, domestic violence, restraining orders, criminal law, construction law, personal injury, wrongful death, landlord-tenant, construction disputes, and general litigation.

Michael and his wife live in Hood River with their two young sons and enjoy many of the outdoor activities the Gorge has to offer, including windsurfing, kiteboarding, skiing, snowboarding, boat sailing, mountain biking, hiking and camping. In addition, Michael coaches lacrosse at the middle school level and competes in snowboarding events.