Michael is our newest recruit and has just joined Blackwood & Smith as a Trainee Solicitor. Michael attended the University of Strathclyde where he completed a Scots and English Law degree and a Diploma in Professional Legal Practice.

Michael currently lives in Hamilton but he is in the process of moving to Peebles with his girlfriend (hopefully moving into their new home in the next couple of weeks!).

At university Michael’s favourite part of the law was Private Client (Wills, Trusts, Executries). He had a particular interest in Legal Rights. Michael wrote his dissertation on this topic which was titled “Legal Rights – A right too far? Are the scales weighed appropriately in relation to protection from disinheritance and testamentary freedom?”. Perhaps you will be seeing a blog post from him on this topic in the future.

Unsurprisingly Michael’s favourite part of being a trainee so far has been his work with Wills, Powers of Attorney and Executries. Although, he is very much looking forward to starting some Conveyancing transactions soon as well.

Michael has many other interests outside of the law. He coaches and plays tennis competitively. He has been a coach since he was 16 and has played all over the country as a junior. He is looking forward to joining a club in the Borders to allow him to continue coaching and competing. Tennis has always been a big part of his life and it is something he is very keen to continue alongside his legal career.  Michael also loves going on road trips, the NC500 being his most memorable. He has big plans for future trips and is looking forward to exploring more of the world.

Michael’s three favourite things (in no particular order) are:

  1. Films;
  2. Tennis; and
  3. Cars.

We really hope you enjoyed getting to know more about Michael, we have certainly enjoyed his company over the past few weeks. Perhaps you will meet him in person during your next transaction with Blackwood & Smith. 

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