ABOUT.

Michael Sandom is a Christchurch-based barrister with nearly a decade of legal experience, specialising in criminal defence and family law. He is known for his precision, clear advice, and calm, grounded presence in court.

Born and raised in Christchurch, Michael studied law, history, and classics at the University of Canterbury. During his studies, he worked as a barrister’s clerk, gaining practical insight into courtroom advocacy from the outset. After admission to the bar, he began in general practice at a small Rangiora firm before moving into litigation. Since then, he has focused on representing clients facing serious criminal charges and those involved in complex family disputes — particularly matters involving care of children and family violence.

Before going to the independent bar, Michael worked under the guidance of two senior Christchurch lawyers. Their mentorship helped shape his disciplined, methodical approach to advocacy and client care.

Michael regularly appears in jury and judge-alone trials, sentencings, and appeals. He has defended clients charged with aggravated robbery, serious assaults, sexual offending, drug offending, and kidnapping. He has secured discharges without conviction, had charges withdrawn or dismissed, and achieved favourable outcomes through careful preparation and sound legal judgment.

In the Family Court, Michael is frequently appointed as Lawyer for Child, representing children, from infants through to teenagers, in sensitive and high-conflict proceedings. He also continues to act for parents, although his capacity to accept these briefs is limited.

Michael’s dual expertise in criminal and family law allows him to provide cohesive, informed representation where these proceedings intersect for both applicant and respondent parents. For clients facing simultaneous criminal charges and Family Court matters — such as family violence allegations or parenting disputes tied to alleged or proven criminal conduct — he offers strategic advice and representation that takes the full context into account. His ability to navigate both courts ensures continuity, clarity, and a practical focus on long-term outcomes.

Alongside his practice, Michael has tutored law and criminal justice at the University of Canterbury for many years. He has also served on the defence lawyer association committee.

His work is grounded in a commitment to fairness, the presumption of innocence, and the principle that every person deserves to be heard and represented — with clarity, respect, and precision, and with firm, honest advice when it’s needed most.