Michael R. Burchstead

Michael is an experienced litigator who has represented individuals and businesses before the state and federal courts of South Carolina and administrative tribunals. He also has a diverse background, which includes experience in the areas of government ethics, political campaign finance law, lobbying compliance, election law, and health care.

As former General Counsel for the South Carolina State Ethics Commission, Michael prosecuted enforcement matters alleging violations of the South Carolina Ethics Act, provided advisory opinions to individuals and entities subject to the Ethics Act, and served as legal counsel to the Commission itself. Previous to that position, Michael served as an Assistant Attorney General for the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office, prosecuting health care fraud. Since leaving government service for the private sector, Michael has focused much of his practice on representation of governmental entities, candidates for elective office, political committees, and other individuals or entities in enforcement actions under the Ethics Act and providing compliance advice to those seeking to avoid an enforcement action. Michael’s experience also includes advising governmental entities on investigations and audits and representing candidates for office in both election protests and litigation.

• Listed in The Best Lawyers in America®: Commercial Litigation since 2024; Administrative / Regulatory Law since 2025; Government Relations Practice since 2025; Health Care Law since 2025

• South Carolina Bar House of Delegates, Fifth Circuit Delegate
• South Carolina Bar Association, Government Law Section, Council Member
• South Carolina Administrative and Regulatory Law Association

Legal Practice Assistant

Angie Ackbersingh-Teed
(803)753-3365
aackbersingh-teed@burr.com