Get To Know Michael
Born Into a Military Family
Michael was born on an Air Force base in Sherman, Texas, to a family shaped by sacrifice, resilience, and a deep love of country. His father, Vincent Arias Jr., immigrated to the United States in 1948 from the Philippines after his family survived the Japanese occupation during World War II, enduring the forced confiscation of their home and the loss of much that they had built. Like so many who fled tyranny and oppression, they came to America seeking freedom, security, and opportunity.
Once in the United States, Michael’s father proudly served his adopted country as a fighter pilot and Captain in the United States Air Force, and became a US Citizen in 1952. Growing up, Michael lived on Air Force bases in Texas, Germany, and Massachusetts before his father was ultimately stationed at Homestead Air Force Base during the Cuban crisis. When Michael was six years old, the Arias family put down permanent roots and made Miami home.
That love of country was also instilled in him by his mother, Rita, a descendant of Americans who served in both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. Rita shared stories passed down through generations that instilled pride in America’s founding ideals and enduring promise. Together, his parents’ histories reflect a uniquely modern American story: immigrant grit and determination alongside deep-rooted American legacy and pride.
Raised and Rooted
in Miami
Michael grew up in Coral Gables and developed a strong connection to Miami’s natural landscape. As a Cub Scout and Boy Scout, he spent weekends camping near Matheson Hammock Park, exploring the Everglades, and boating on Biscayne Bay.
He attended local public schools, graduating from Ponce de Leon Junior High and Coral Gables Senior High School. As a student-athlete, he competed in varsity water polo and swimming, experiences that helped shape his discipline, teamwork, and perseverance.
Michael earned all three of his degrees from Florida State University: a Bachelor of Science in Finance, an MBA, and a Juris Doctor. His education helped shape his values of fiscal responsibility, legal integrity, and practical leadership.
For more than 35 years, Michael and his wife, Michelle, have lived in Coconut Grove, where they raised their son in the Miami community they love. Michelle is a University of Miami alumna, and their son is currently a senior there.
Public Service, Federal Enforcement
and Business Leadership
Michael Arias has built a 40-year career in public service, law enforcement, and private-sector leadership, and has been a member of the Florida Bar since 1982. He began as a state prosecutor in Orange County, Florida, where he handled criminal cases and worked to protect communities and uphold the rule of law.
He later joined the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission in Miami as an Enforcement Attorney, investigating and prosecuting financial fraud and misconduct.
Michael then moved into senior leadership roles at major financial institutions and broker-dealers, where he applied his legal and regulatory experience to complex compliance and management challenges.
In 2004, he returned to private practice, representing investors, financial professionals, and small broker-dealers, with a focus on fairness, accountability, and ethical conduct in the financial system.
