Michael Perkins

Associate Attorney

Michael Perkins is a criminal-defense attorney who represents clients in serious federal and New York State criminal matters. His practice includes violent crimes, sex offenses, narcotics and firearms cases, fraud matters, appeals, and post-conviction proceedings.

Trial and Appellate Experience

Michael has contributed to the defense of clients in complex and high-stakes trials. In 2022, he served as second chair alongside Elena Fast in a Kings County sexual-offense trial that ended in a complete acquittal after approximately 30 minutes of jury deliberations.

In his next trial, Michael was part of the defense team in the high-profile “Colonial Rape Case,” a sexual-assault prosecution in Broome County. Following a multi-defendant trial, the jury returned not-guilty verdicts on every count after approximately two hours of deliberations.

Michael has since represented clients in federal trials in the Southern District of New York and in appellate matters before the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit and New York Appellate Division, Second Department.

Motion Practice and Written Advocacy

A skilled legal writer and courtroom advocate, Michael obtained the dismissal of felony firearms charges on speedy-trial grounds in Queens County. The motion presented unusual legal issues arising from the suspension of grand-jury proceedings during the COVID-19 pandemic. Michael also wrote and argued a successful motion in Queens County Supreme Court seeking retroactive youthful-offender adjudication.

Approach to Criminal Defense

Michael believes effective criminal defense requires both determined advocacy and a meaningful understanding of the person being represented. He works closely with clients to understand not only the allegations and evidence, but also the professional, family, immigration, and personal consequences that may result from a criminal case.

He approaches each matter with the understanding that the government has substantial investigative and prosecutorial resources—and that protecting the client requires careful preparation, independent analysis, and a willingness to challenge the prosecution’s case.

Before attending law school, Michael worked in residential real estate at Douglas Elliman in New York City.