Michael Garmisa, Associate

Background and Experience

Michael Garmisa is a seasoned trial attorney with nearly 20 years of courtroom experience, bringing a formidable background in criminal defense and prosecution to his role as Senior Associate at Locks Law Firm. Based in the firm’s Philadelphia office, Michael focuses on toxic tort litigation and supports the firm's complex personal injury and civil rights cases.

Before joining Locks, Michael served in the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office, where he led the Conviction Integrity Unit. There, he investigated and litigated claims of actual innocence, wrongful convictions, and sentencing disparities, securing multiple exonerations in state and federal courts. His work required mastery of complex legal frameworks and collaboration with experts across forensic, psychological, and technological fields.

Earlier in his career, Michael spent over a decade as an Assistant Defender at the Defender Association of Philadelphia, representing indigent clients in homicide, appeals, and trial units. Known for his strategic litigation skills and deep dedication to justice, he has tried countless cases and argued numerous appeals in Pennsylvania’s courts.

Michael is a recognized thought leader on prosecutorial ethics, police accountability, and post-conviction reform, with speaking engagements at the Innocence Network Annual Conference and the National Police Accountability Project. He is admired for his ability to bring complex legal narratives to life for judges and juries alike.

A graduate of Emory University School of Law and Emory College, Michael is admitted to practice in Pennsylvania.

Public Appearances

• Featured Speaker, Innocence Network Annual Conference – “Navigating Collaboration Between Conviction Integrity Units and Wrongful Conviction Organizations: A Philadelphia Perspective” (March 22, 2024)

• CLE Panelist, Philadelphia Bar Association (2024)

• Panelist, National Police Accountability Project Conference (2023) 

• Faculty Presenter, National Institute for Trial Advocacy (NITA) – Building Trial Skills Program (2023)