Michael Dooley

Solicitor

Email:

michael.dooley@milesandpartners.com

Connect with me:

Languages:

English

Expertise and experience

Michael is a solicitor specialising in the Mental Capacity Act in relation to deprivation of liberty and welfare matters and the responsibilities of local authorities under Part 1 Care Act 2014.

Michael has expertise in cases involving:

Mental capacity and best interests decision-making in community care and housing
Deprivations of liberty in care homes, supported living and healthcare settings
Effective and least restrictive discharges from mental health care settings
Transitional care planning for younger adults

Initially a schoolteacher, since 2009 Michael has worked as a senior solicitor/ advocate for local authorities in the southwest and understands how local authorities make their decisions.

Michael led a local authority response to Law Commission consultation on the Care Act and co-ordinated corporate response to the Law Commission consultation on the Liberty Protection Standards.

Practice areas

Community care

1989-2007

Worked as a schoolteacher

1994

Awarded PhD in English Literature from Queen Mary and Westfield College, University of London

2009

Qualified as a solicitor

2011

Awarded Higher Rights (Civil)

2018 - 2024

Team Leader/Service Manager – contentious legal - Wiltshire Council

2024

Joined Miles & Partners

Approach and ethos

I am focused on finding solutions to problems affecting vulnerable people. I work well in situations where there has been a breakdown in trust and promote calm and confidence in my clients.
My experience as a local authority solicitor gives me insight into how local authorities work and make decisions. My analytical approach and research background enable me to synthesise information quickly and present it clearly.
I use my legal knowledge and advocacy skills to empower vulnerable individuals and promote independence and autonomy. My advice starts where people are now and explores workable resolutions.