Michael’s depth of experience, ability to get to the heart of an issue and communication skills put him at the top of employment & industrial law and personal injury law.
Michael is recognised in the profession as a leading practitioner in these practice areas and is accredited by the NSW Law Society in employment & industrial law and personal injury.
He has served on a variety of committees of the Law Society, including as part of the peer review process by which solicitors become accredited specialists in employment and industrial Law.
He has been a partner at Carroll & O’Dea Lawyers since 2013 where he has a busy practice handling matters from a diversity of clients from all areas of New South Wales.
“Working side-by-side with clients, resolving problems and getting good results is what it’s all about – at Carroll & O’Dea Lawyers we have an unparalleled team of experienced practitioners who go above and beyond for their clients when it matters.”
Key Professional Achievements
- Michael completed a Bachelor of Economics and a Bachelor of Laws in 1975 and 1977 (respectively) from the University of Sydney.
- Michael was admitted to practice in NSW in 1978
- He completed a Masters of Laws at Sydney University while working in legal practice.
- Listed in the 2023 Doyle’s Guide to the Australian Legal Profession as a ‘Recommended’ practitioner in the area of employment (Employee & Trade Union Representation) – NSW.
- Listed in the 2020, 2021 and 2022 Doyle’s Guide to the Australian Legal Profession as a ‘Leading’ practitioner in the area of employment (Employee & Trade Union Representation) – NSW.
- Listed in the Doyle’s Guide as ‘Recommended’ practitioner in the area of employment (Employee & Trade Union Representation) – Australia, 2020, 2023 and in the area of Work Injury Compensation – NSW, 2018.
- Michael is an Accredited Specialist in both Personal Injury and Employment Law by the NSW Law Society.
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I would highly recommend Carroll & O'Dea Lawyers. I had Michael Barnes represent me. Michael is very direct and will tell you exactly how it is, he definitely gets the job done with the best results! Natalee in the office is an absolute pleasure to deal with, fast professional and reliable. Thanks for making a difficult situation so much easier.
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We would like to thank Michael Barnes and Courtney Lawes on the way they handled our case which was over 5 years ago. They were easy to talk to and were direct so you knew where you stood with them (which was refreshing, sometimes too direct). Thanks again.
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I first came to know Michael Barnes more than two years ago and since then Michael has been working on my claim, I found Michael to be attentive to details and ensure that anything that was said on my behalf was accurate and always ensured that I was kept advised of any key developments. I understood I had to make the decision as to what happened with my claim and Michael always put the options clearly out in front of me and was prepared to make recommendations. He was there when I needed him at crucial stages of my claim and overall I’m very pleased with the outcome and appreciate the genuineness of his efforts.
Vicki
October 2019
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I would like to express my thanks and gratitude to Michael and the staff of Carroll & O'Dea who worked on my case.
I enjoyed my interactions with Michael despite being, in times, very difficult circumstances by reference to pain and discomfort, convalescing from surgeries and living with continuing restrictions.
His handling of my claim involved a range of issues including at times us being in different time zones.
Things panned out pretty much as we had hoped.
I'd call it “one for the little guys”. I can only say if you are dealing with Michael you’re dealing with a straight shooter, who'll tell it like it is and keeps the focus on the case.
Rod.
July 2019
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The insurance company was giving me a hard time. I knew I had hurt myself at work, I had witnesses, so I decided to go to Carroll & O’Dea lawyers. Michael Barnes got the insurance company to pay for everything and get my holiday and sick pay back. Michael was always in control. He was very professional. I felt very comfortable around him. And I believe all his advice was accurate. They helped me so much, they put my life back on track. The only bad thing about Michael Barnes was that he’s a Parramatta supporter, and I’m a mighty Rabbitohs supporter but, you know, not everybody’s perfect.”
Paul M.
March 2019
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I want to take this opportunity to thank Michael Barnes for all the hard work he put in to my case and thank him for the support he gave me in a challenging time. Michael took everything the other side threw at us in his stride and I know I benefited greatly from his expert advice.
Maryann.
November 2018
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Many thanks to Michael Barnes for his support in relation to my claim.
I found myself in difficult circumstances and Michael and his team were able to work their way through the issues for me. I was well pleased with the outcome and appreciate the efforts made on my behalf.
Meaghean.
September 2017
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I was very impressed by the legal advice provided by Mr Barnes at Carroll & O'Dea. During legal disputes, one needs fast and reliable advice, and Mr Barnes offered his insights in a timely and non-bureaucratic manner. His calm personality allows for a realistic assessment of what is possible under the law, and what is not. His approach brings confidence for the client that the approach taken is the right one.
Dr MB.
March 2017
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I would like to take this opportunity to thank Carroll & O'Dea and in particular Mr Michael Barnes for his handling of my case.
Mr Barnes was available at all times to offer advice and keep me up to date on proceedings. His professionalism and approachability helped make things easier at a difficult time.
Yours sincerely,
Wayne W.
July 2016
