Christopher Orchard
Special CounselAbout Christopher
Christopher specialises in public and administrative law. He regularly appears as a solicitor advocate in the Federal Court and Federal Circuit Court and Family Court in judicial review proceedings and the Administrative Appeals Tribunal in merits review proceedings.
What he does
Christopher is an experienced litigator and advocate in merits and judicial review proceedings in the Administrative Appeals Tribunal, the Federal Circuit Court and Family Court, and Federal Court hearings and trials. He leads litigation in large Full Federal Court and High Court matters, predominantly in public law advising and representing both government and private clients, at both federal and state levels. He advises and represents clients in the Supreme Cocurt of Victoria and Magistrates’ Court of Victoria. His practice is focused on advocacy and advising clients on complex statutory interpretation questions and legislative drafting issues.
Who he works with
Christopher works with multiple Commonwealth Departments, Commonwealth Ministers, state regulatory agencies and private clients. He also has a rich pro bono practice advising a wide array of clients including charities, sole traders, private individuals, and community groups.
Qualifications
Christopher holds a Juris Doctor from the Australian National University and a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) from La Trobe University.
Life before Sparkes
Christopher previously worked as an associate and advisor before joining Sparke Helmore.
Life outside of Sparkes
Christopher is a Melbourne FC tragic and enjoys attending games at the ‘G with his partner and daughter whenever he can. He is an amateur furniture maker and restorer. He is a keen brewer of craft beer and maker of terrariums, two hobbies he finds are best enjoyed in company. On weekends and holidays, you’ll find him enjoying Victoria’s beautiful High Country, from where he hails.