Education
J.D., University of Baltimore School of Law
B.A., Elon University
Michael Tines, (They/Them), is a dedicated legal professional passionate about public interest and social justice advocacy. They joined the Center for Criminal Justice Reform in the fall of 2025 after earning their Juris Doctor from the University of Baltimore School of Law, where they received the Dean's Citation for Outstanding Service. During law school, they demonstrated leadership as president of the Student Bar Association. Their legal experience includes providing client-centered representation to veterans on civil and benefits issues as a student attorney in the Bob Parsons Veterans Advocacy Clinic.
Before law school, Tines's professional identity was shaped by their advocacy efforts, especially at Common Cause North Carolina, where they served as College Outreach Program Manager. They oversaw the HBCU Student Action Alliance, a campus initiative aimed at increasing civic engagement across all 10 HBCUs in North Carolina. Leading a team of 17, including professional organizers and student Democracy Fellows, they executed campaign strategies, mobilized voters, and managed community outreach. Their organizational skills and strategic planning were vital in ensuring their department’s financial stability and growth, securing significant funding through fundraising and grants.
Tines earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, with minors in History and International Studies, from Elon University, where they received the Phillips-Perry Black Excellence Award for Leadership.