Michael Nott operates as a sole legal practitioner, offering legal service for his clients at a reasonable cost.  His primary focus is justice and the needs of the client.  Michael has a particular interest in medical evidence law and has experience in defending clients who have been accused of harming their children in a medical context, most usually in relation to ‘shaken baby syndrome’ and ‘Munchausen by Proxy’ (medical child abuse), often involving medical issues such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and brittle bones [Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI)].  However, his work is not limited to these areas of medical theory. He also has a general interest in evidence law, particularly in relation to expert medical or scientific evidence.

Michael Nott principally practices in the child protection and criminal jurisdictions, with a specific emphasis on medical and scientific evidence.  Whilst Michael is based in the Blue Mountains west of Sydney, he defends matters in regional and city centres across all states in Australia.  Michael can also act as a consultant to local and overseas lawyers/barristers.

Michael Nott has defended or consulted in criminal matters where clients have been charged with ‘shaking’ their baby, and has been successful in having these charges dropped,  or alternatively, achieving not guilty verdicts, and has also been effective in shaking, medical child abuse and fractured bones child protection matters, by achieving the return of children to their parents.

Michael Nott takes a detailed and forensic approach to his cases, utilising a wide network of Australian and overseas medical/scientific experts or consultants.  Where appropriate, Michael may create a formidable legal team, tailor designed for each particular matter, utilising specific legal expertise.  Michael is also able to provide consultancy services to his professional colleagues, whose clients face these specific types of medical allegations.

With a particular interest in justice, he will work to achieve the best possible legal outcomes for his clients.  He fully understands the prejudice many clients face in relation to allegations in the medical context.  He guides his clients through the distressing court process through the combination of strategy and determined advocacy.

Often individuals facing allegations involving complex medical or scientific material feel overwhelmed by the sheer complexity and quantity of the evidence involved, at the same time as they are suffering severe emotional distress.  Michael will liaise with relevant medical consultants and experts, either in Australia or overseas (Canada, USA, UK, Sweden and Norway), to make sense of this material for the court process.  In April 2025, he and his wife, Dr Helen Hayward-Brown, were invited to give presentations of their work at the renowned Crick Institute in London, in conjunction with other international experts.  This conference placed its focus on injustice in light of the exoneration of Kathleen Folbigg.

Michael Nott’s work has been highlighted by various media outlets, including 60 Minutes [Australia], A Current Affair, and the Guardian.  He is also co-author of the Australian chapter in the book titled ‘Shaken Baby Syndrome – Investigating the Abusive Head Trauma Controversy.’

Michael is fully aware of the importance of trust between a lawyer and client, and the fact that a client depends on his representation of their matter.  For these reasons, he endeavours to represent his clients in person or with the assistance of a barrister.  He keeps clients informed of developments in their cases and makes sure that they fully understand the processes and case strategies which are occurring.

Michael came to the practice of law later in life, having previously worked in the media, including a stint as media advisor to the Chief Justice of the Family Court of Australia.  For these reasons, he often operates in a different manner to other lawyers.  Michael graduated in law from Macquarie University and achieved his ANU practising certificate with merit.

Michael has a passion for the law, with an intense interest in the need for meticulous examination of evidence and the role this plays in relation to justice.  With his background in media, Michael is fully equipped to understand and manage the role of the media in cases that attract the media spotlight.

Michael always remains cognisant of the impact of serious allegations on the lives of his clients and their extended families.  Michael is determined in his representation of clients, fighting hard so that his clients can reclaim their lives.  He remains committed and acts with empathy in the care of his clients.