Michael Charles Berry Sr

Michael C. Berry, Sr. began practicing law after a successful business career in 1991. 

After an Honorable Discharge from the U.S. Army in 1972, Mr. Berry graduated with a B.A. from the University of Michigan.  Following a successful business career, In 1991, Mr. Berry received a law degree (Juris Doctorate).  Prior to attending Law School, Mr. Berry was employed by national and international  corporations holding various positions including corporate analyst, eventually president of a construction and fabrication company actively building low through high-rise (monumental) glass buildings throughout the U.S. with a few projects offshore.[1]  

Mr. Berry has travelled extensively; practices law in state, federal and international forums working with diplomats, law enforcement, and judiciary.  His cases have included matters in numerous countries around the globe.   

Mr. Berry’s cases presently include matters in Caribbean, Central Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. 

In addition to business matters, Mr. Berry has always made time for the advancement of children rights.  He has been retained by foreign governments in complex international child custody matters; hunted down abducted children; and breaking “black market adoptions.”  Mr. Berry appears as an expert witness in child abduction cases; has lectured and written on International Child Abduction; and mentors lawyers in international child custody cases.  He has contributed numerous hours to the Children’s Legal Aid Society (CLAS), an IRS 501C-3, specifically formed in support of Children’s Rights.

Mr. Berry has held many quasi-judicial positions in Florida as a Hearing Officer, Magistrate and Special Master.  In his profession, Mr. Berry has served, and in some instances chaired, committees for local and state bar associations, including the Clearwater Bar Association, Florida Bar Civil Practice Rules Committee, and served three years as Executive Director of the Barney Masterson Inn of Court.  In 2008, Mr. Berry was privileged as being selected by his peers, the Sixth Circuit Judicial Nominating Committee, for the final round of judicial appointment to the Sixth Circuit Court in Florida.  Ultimately, the then Governor Crist selected another highly qualified and deserving candidate for the position.