About Michael Daugherty, Esq.

I have been practicing law in Northern Virginia since 2012, representing and advising clients across a range of legal matters, with a primary focus on family law—including divorce, custody, support, and protective orders. My approach is grounded in delivering honest, practical advice aimed at achieving favorable outcomes. This commitment to value and integrity has helped me build a loyal client base that continues to refer friends and family with confidence.

My work has been recognized by both Super Lawyers and Martindale-Hubbell for excellence in family law as well as in criminal defense—a rare distinction that positions me uniquely to assist clients whose legal matters span both areas. This has proven especially valuable in complex cases where criminal allegations intersect with family law proceedings.

Together with my wife and law partner, Kimberly Luckey, we co-founded Daugherty Luckey, PLLC with a mission: to help clients define their goals and apply the right strategies to reach them. We combine deep legal experience with a strong commitment to client service, striving to offer an exceptional legal experience that is often hard to find. We earn our clients’ trust not just through results, but through actions that demonstrate we care.

In May 2025, I earned a Master of Law (LL.M.) in Securities and Financial Regulation from Georgetown University Law Center—an advanced legal degree focused on business and finance. This education has sharpened my ability to analyze complex financial matters, a skill that has elevated my family law practice, particularly in cases involving closely held businesses or sophisticated assets.

Kim and I are also the proud parents of three young children, including twins. As spouses, parents, and working professionals, we understand firsthand the challenges our clients face. That shared experience helps us connect more deeply with our clients and craft strategies that resonate with both judges and opposing counsel, often leading to more effective outcomes.

Outside the office, I enjoy spending time with my family, running, skiing, downhill mountain biking, and exploring the outdoors whenever possible.

 

Awards

Reviews for Michael Daugherty, Esq.

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Overall Rating
Showing 1-10 of 26 client reviews from Lawyers.com
Lawyers.com Rating Snapshot
5 stars
81%
4 stars
12%
3 stars
4%
2 stars
0%
1 star
4%
What do people say on Lawyers.com?
Communication
4.7
Quality of Service
4.8
Responsiveness
4.7
Value for Money
4.8
Family Law
Posted by Mahmudun
August 15, 2025
Hired Attorney Michael Daugherty, Esq.

Any just court proceeding rests on three pillars: a strong case, an exceptional attorney, and an impartial, highly principled judge. Mr. Daugherty embodies the highest standard of legal advocacy—brilliant, articulate, impeccably organized, and deeply respectful to all. His exceptional public speaking, practical approach, and remarkable empathy—at times almost disarming—set him apart from even the most accomplished professionals I have known. Equally impressive is the seamless support and professionalism of his team, whose diligence reflects his high standards. He focuses on the process and his client’s best interests, never offering false hope. In my adultery divorce case, he secured full physical custody for me as a father—an uncommon achievement. Having him as my counsel was an extraordinary privilege. He dispelled my skepticism that attorneys are driven solely by financial gain, proving that true advocacy is rooted in integrity, compassion, and unwavering dedication to justice.

 
Family Law
Posted by Jessica
April 12, 2025
Hired Attorney Michael Daugherty, Esq.

Mike and his team is all you need. I was referred to Mike from a friend after I had two failed attempts of representation with previous family lawyers that I have dealt with for a year. I called 3 other firms elsewhere, they all needed appointments weeks far out in advance, and couldn't help me asap. I wish I would've came to him and his team first! His team answered the phone right away, tried to put me in contact with him and DID instantaneously. They felt and understood my urgency. Mike called me within less than 10 minutes from my initial call. He listened to me and within a couple of days I had an appointment. He read through my documents before the meeting and his work was thorough, he took his time to explain to me the outcomes of the decisions and possibilities of what could happen next. I worked with Mike for about 5 months, any questions I had about legal context, he was able to simplify it for me. He will respond and reach out to the opposing party. I highly recommend!

 
General Practice
Posted by anonymous
February 06, 2025
Hired Attorney Michael Daugherty, Esq.

I found Mike while getting a second opinion about my case, and it was the best thing that could have happened. Mike Dougherty has helped me immensely with a contentious custody case, and I recommend him highly. His expertise, dedication, and strategic approach made a significant difference in my situation. Not only did Mike provide exceptional support in family court, but he also assisted with a related criminal matter. His ability to handle both aspects of my case reduced my legal costs and led to my case being dismissed and in the process of being expunged—an outcome I never thought possible. Having been extensively involved in family court for over 15 years, I can confidently say there’s no other lawyer I’d recommend. Mike understands the legal system and navigates highly contentious situations with skill and professionalism. Beyond his legal acumen, what sets Mike apart is that he truly cares about his clients. His support has been invaluable, and I’m incredibly grateful for his

 
Child Custody
Posted by RICHARD
December 30, 2024
Hired Attorney Michael Daugherty, Esq.

Michael has been indispensable in my child custody matters. Unlike previous counsel, he doesn't just say what one wants to hear but truly seeks what is in his client's best interest. He is very focused and quick in replying and immediately makes himself available and one can tell he truly cares about his clients. I would highly recommend him for all your family law concerns.

 
Divorce
Posted by anonymous
December 18, 2024
Hired Attorney Michael Daugherty, Esq.

I am profoundly thankful for the expertise provided by Daugherty Luckey, PLLC, both in the past and present. From the outset, Mike has demonstrated thoroughness, integrity, and exceptional knowledge as we have worked through my challenging separation, divorce, and subsequent matters. I especially value the firm's swift responses, meticulous attention to detail, and strategic planning aimed at safeguarding my children's best interests. Mike and Kim are attentive listeners who strive to understand my concerns; they offer support while maintaining a firm stance, and their genuine care is evident.

 
Child Custody
Posted by Christine
August 26, 2024
Hired Attorney Michael Daugherty, Esq.

Mike took my pre-existing case when my previous lawyer had a schedule conflict. Right out the gate, Mike made things extremely clear. I have spent two years fearful and worried about my custody case. In just a few days, Mike laid out the VA Code for custody, clearly explaining how things would go and what the rules are. This brought me such relief, as no one had ever done that. He listened to my fears, reassured me with the law, and worked quickly to get up to speed on my case with just about 2 weeks time to work. He was VERY good in the courtroom, his questioning of my ex husband helped show the court his true colors, and ultimately, he helped me protect my children from added time with their unstable and unreliable parent. Mike is an excellent and clear communicator, respectful and kind, has empathy, but gets the job done and knows how to deal with lying narcissists.

 
Child Custody
Posted by Lee
July 22, 2024
Hired Attorney Michael Daugherty, Esq.

I would like to give Mr Daugherty an excellent review. He represented my wife and I in a case involving a family member wishing to impose visitation rights for our children. He was timely, professional, and took the time to understand our concerns. He proved extremely well versed in the areas of family law, was able to translate the “legalese” to layman’s terms and had our interests at heart. As a result, we were able to come to a settlement without hitting our actual court date. While it is true the opposing party dropped their case, once we took notice of the work Mr Daugherty work behind the scenes, we believe the quick resolution was due to the efforts of Michael and his team. Thank you, kind Sir, for everything!

 
Child Support
Posted by Jeff
June 03, 2024
Hired Attorney Michael Daugherty, Esq.

I cannot recommend Michael C. Daugherty highly enough. Michael represented me in a family law matter and delivered an outstanding outcome. His professionalism and direct approach were truly impressive. Michael is a straight shooter who managed my expectations perfectly throughout the entire process. He communicated effectively and always put my interests first, steering clear of unnecessary paths. His dedication and client-first mentality made all the difference. If you need a top-notch attorney, Michael is the one to trust.

 
Trusts and Estates
Posted by Karla
April 15, 2024
Hired Attorney Michael Daugherty, Esq.

We used Mike for our estate planning. He wrote a will, Durable Power of Attorney, and an Advance Medical Directive for my husband and I and our adult children, who are away in college. He completed the documents in record time, answered all of my questions, and gave me peace of mind. We will definitely use Mike again for any future needs.

 
Child Custody
Posted by Keith
February 21, 2024
Hired Attorney Michael Daugherty, Esq.

Mr. Daugherty knows the law and paid attention to every detail surrounding my case. His effective litigation skills were apparent and backed by law to support my interests and protect my rights. On the first day of the trial, the judge postponed immediately after Mr. Daugherty’s opening statement (which included a pretrial motion to exclude the opposing parties witness list because they did not follow legal protocols in revealing what they would testify to in the discovery). Eventually, the opposing party agreed to a fair and equitable settlement, the trial was dismissed, and I saved a lot of time and money. Mr. Daugherty is an excellent attorney with a tremendous amount of knowledge and experience in his legal field(s). He was honest, direct, and effective in all areas surrounding my case and I am so appreciative to have had his level of commitment and professional representation. I highly recommend his services and wouldn’t hesitate to have him represent me again if needed.

 

Services

Areas of Law

  • Family Law 2
    • Divorce
    • Child Custody
  • Child Abuse and Neglect
  • Contracts
  • Criminal Law
  • Personal Injury

Experience

  • Bar Admission & Memberships
    Admissions
    2011, Virginia
    Memberships
    Prince William County and Virginia Bar Associations
    Virginia State Bar
    Virginia Trial Lawyers Association.
  • Education & Certifications
    Law School
    Florida Coastal School of Law
    Class of 2010
    J.D.
    cum laude

    Georgetown University Law Center
    Class of 2025
    LL.M.
    Cum Laude
    Other Education
    Hampden-Sydney College
    Class of 2008
    B.A.
    Economics

    University of Virginia Trial Advocacy
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Attorneys FAQs

  • Is this attorney Martindale-Hubbell Client Review rated?
    Yes, Michael Daugherty, Esq. has a 4.8 Client Rating from Martindale-Hubbell.
  • How many attorneys are in this law firm?
    Daugherty Luckey PLLC has 2 attorneys at this location.
  • What law school did this attorney attend?
    Michael Daugherty, Esq. attended Florida Coastal School of Law and Georgetown University Law Center.
  • What year was this attorney's law firm established?
    Daugherty Luckey PLLC was established in 2023.