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Michael Dooley

Senior Associate 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. 

In 2025, Michael was appointed as an Accredited Legal Representative on the Law Society’s Court of Protection (Health and Welfare) panel.

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
2025
Appointed Accredited Legal Representative
2025
Promoted to Senior Associate Solicitor

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.

Accolades, accreditations and memberships