About Michael
For over 28 years, Michael has thoughtfully guided clients toward fair and equitable outcomes. Michael has practiced family law exclusively since January 2005. Michael is a Certified Family Law Specialist (certified by the State Bar of California – Board of Legal Specialization), a certified Mediator, a certified Minor’s Counsel, a certified Collaborative Law Attorney, Consulting Attorney, Litigator, Parenting Coordinator, and a Relationship Coach.
Michael focuses his practice on helping families navigate all aspects of family law, including child custody and parenting plans, child and spousal support, property division, and post-judgment modifications. His approach emphasizes practical solutions that reduce conflict and support long-term family stability.
Through his experience, Michael works with individuals and families to resolve disputes outside of the courtroom whenever possible. He is committed to helping parties reach constructive agreements through respectful communication, creative problem-solving, and a focus on the best interests of the children.
Michael also serves as minor’s counsel, advocating for the voice and well-being of children in child custody matters. Michael also works as a parenting coordinator, assisting parents in resolving parenting disagreements and, when authorized, making binding decisions that help families move forward more smoothly.
Beyond legal representation, Michael offers relationship and communication coaching to help individuals and couples navigate challenging transitions, strengthen co-parenting relationships, and build healthier paths forward.
Michael is a former Special Assistant United States Attorney and Staff Judge Advocate (JAG) in the United States Air Force where he served on active duty until April of 2003. As a JAG Officer, Michael deployed to Kuwait and Afghanistan following the September 11, 2001 attacks on America. Michael received the Air Force Outstanding JAG Officer of the Year award in 2002 for the Air Force Space Command and the 14th Air Force Command.
Michael earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) in 1991 and his law degree from the University of San Diego, in 1997. Michael practices law throughout California and Colorado.
Honors
- Northern California Super Lawyer, 2011 – present
- Chair of the San Mateo County Bar Association Family Law Section, 2008
- Outstanding Volunteer in Public Service Award, 2004
- Recipient-Air Force Outstanding Judge Advocate of the Year, 2002
- Recipient-Air Force Meritorious Service Medal for service at VAFB , 2002
- Recipient-Air Force Meritorious Service Medal for service in Afghanistan, 2002
- Nominee-Air Force Outstanding Judge Advocate of the Year, 2001
- White House Intern, 1997-1998
Professional Associations
- Association of Certified Family Law Specialists
- California Bar Association
- Collaborative Practice, San Mateo County
- Chair, San Mateo County Bar Association, Family Law Section, 2008
- Co-chair, San Mateo County Bar Association, Family Law Section, 2007
- International Academy of Collaborative Professionals
- Colorado Bar Association
- Washington, D.C. Bar Association
- The Mediation Association of Colorado – Board of Directors
- The Mediation Association of Colorado – Ethics Committee
- All Roads Homeless Shelter – Board of Directors
- Family Therapy Institute of Santa Barbara – Board of Directors
- Community Mediation Services
Address:
6201 Antioch Street, Suite 300
Oakland, CA 94611
Email:
mchristy@ckdfamilylaw.com