Westkin Associates

Senior Immigration Lawyer

Michael joined Westkin Associates in 2017, having practised exclusively in immigration law since 2005. Over the course of his career, he has developed extensive expertise across all areas of UK immigration law, advising both private and business clients on complex and high-profile matters.

Michael began his immigration law career as a trainee caseworker in the immigration department of a London law firm and obtained accreditation under the Immigration and Asylum Accreditation Scheme (IAAS) in the same year. He has maintained professional accreditation since then and is regulated by the Immigration Advice Authority (IAA) at Level 3, the highest level of accreditation. Michael also holds longstanding accreditation under the Solicitors Regulation Authority's Immigration and Asylum Accreditation Scheme.

Alongside his legal practice, Michael studied Law at Birkbeck, University of London, graduating with First Class Honours in 2012.

With more than two decades of experience in immigration law, Michael has advised clients across every category of immigration application, including Skilled Worker and Points-Based System applications, business immigration, EEA matters, complex family and human rights applications, asylum claims, detention and bail matters, and deportation challenges. He has developed particular expertise in the Innovator Founder, Global Talent, and other specialist immigration routes designed for entrepreneurs, innovators, and highly skilled individuals.

Michael is widely recognised for his compassionate and client-focused approach, combining sensitivity and understanding with pragmatic, strategic advice. He is known for earning the trust and confidence of clients while maintaining a determined and fearless commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes. His reputation for discretion and professionalism has led to him advising numerous high-profile individuals throughout his career.

At Westkin Associates, Michael conducts advocacy before both the First-tier and Upper Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber) and is responsible for the firm's internal legal training programme, ensuring that lawyers and caseworkers remain at the forefront of developments in immigration law. He also works closely with prominent human rights organisations and special interest groups across the UK and has delivered numerous presentations and training sessions on developments in immigration and asylum law.

Michael advises clients operating across a wide range of industries and sectors, enabling him to provide commercially informed and practical immigration solutions. He has developed a particular client base within the Deep Innovation sector, advising founders, researchers, and businesses involved in disruptive technologies and transformative innovations with global impact.

Known for his meticulous preparation, sound judgement, and broad technical expertise, Michael provides comprehensive immigration advice tailored to the unique objectives of each client, whether personal, commercial, or humanitarian in nature.

English

Michael holds accreditation with the IAAS since 2006 and with IAA (at level 3).

Michael read Law at Birkbeck, graduating in 2012 with first class honours. Prior to that, he completed a BA (Honours) in Fine Art at the University of Southampton in 2003.

Michael lives in London. Outside of work he pursues a range of interests relating to music, film and art. He also enjoys cooking for friends and family.