With a dual degree in aerospace and mechanical engineering, and as a former mechanical engineer, Michael provides clients with the unique perspective of an attorney who not only understands the science behind many different technologies, but also the legal side required to protect their rights. He concentrates his practice on patent prosecution and the protection of technology in various technical disciplines, with an emphasis on mechanical, biomedical, optical, software, and electrical inventions.
Michael began his legal career as a patent attorney at IBM, where he represented the company in all aspects of patent prosecution including responding to U.S. Patent and Trademark Office actions, wrote patent applications, and consulted with inventors regarding invention disclosures, primarily with respect to mechanical, software, and robotics-related inventions. He also provides counsel to clients in other areas of intellectual property, including trademark, copyright, litigation, and licensing matters.
PROFESSIONAL & CIVIC AFFILIATIONS
- Board Member, Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens
- Associate Producers Circle, Buffalo-Toronto Public Media, 2024
- Young Professionals Board, Hauptman-Woodward Medical Research Institute, 2023 Cohort
- Member, Bar Association of Erie County
- Member, Phi Alpha Delta
- Adjunct Professor, Introduction to Patent Practice, University at Buffalo School of Law, 2020
- Guest Lecturer, Intellectual Property Law, Niagara University
- Guest Lecturer, Intellectual Property Law, Blackstone LaunchPad at University at Buffalo
HONORS & AWARDS
- Recipient, “Up and Coming Lawyers” Award, The Daily Record and Rochester Business Journal Attorneys of the Year, 2024
- Selected to the Upstate New York Super Lawyers Rising Stars list, 2022-2025
- Recipient, Ronald W. Rosken’s Scholastic Achievement Award, University at Buffalo
