Mike’s standard for being a criminal defense lawyer is simple: “A good lawyer represents clients, but a great lawyer fights for people.” With 20 years of experience as a criminal defense trial lawyer, Mike is no stranger to legal battles. Having defended thousands of people, charged with crimes ranging from minor infractions to capital murder, Mike has fought for the accused in numerous trials and hearings as lead counsel. Mike has defended business people, military officers, school teachers, engineers, and law enforcement officers. He has fought on behalf of those with the means to defend themselves, as well as the poor. He has waged battles for people in high-profile cases and, more often, for the accused who received no media attention. Mike has been certified as a Specialist in State Criminal Law by the NC Bar Board of Legal Specialization since 2004 and as a Specialist in Criminal Trial Advocacy by the National Board of Trial Advocacy since 2007.