Attorney Michael R. Burchstead has been elected as a shareholder of the Collins & Lacy law firm. Through his Government, Ethics, and Compliance Practice, Burchstead represents public officials, governmental entities, political campaigns, lobbyists and lobbyist principals, and others who have issues with or seek advice on compliance with South Carolina or federal law.

He also defends businesses and professionals in matters before state and federal courts.

“Michael’s practice is addressing an underserved need in this state, particularly in its ability to assist individuals, companies, and governmental entities who want to do the right thing, but have difficulty navigating the complexity of the Ethics Act and other state laws,” said Collins & Lacy President Chris Adams. “He has also proven to be a valuable team member in achieving positive results for Collins & Lacy’s clients in litigation defense.”

Michael Burchstead joined Collins & Lacy in 2017 after serving as the General Counsel for the South Carolina State Ethics Commission, where he provided advisory opinions and prosecuted enforcement actions under the Ethics, Government Accountability, and Campaign Reform Act of 1991. Michael’s experience also includes prosecuting health care fraud cases as an Assistant Attorney General for the State of South Carolina and working as a legislative aide to three members of the United States House of Representatives in Washington, D.C.