Sarah Churstain

Partner
Asset Protection Trusts and Estate Planning · Aviation · Business Law · Commercial · Construction · Corporate · Environmental · Government & Public Sector · Insolvency & Turnaround · Other Industries · Personal law · Property · Regulatory Compliance · Residential Property
Ford Sumner - Sarah Churstain

Background/Expertise

An expert corporate and commercial lawyer, Sarah has guided Ford Sumner Lawyers clients through many mergers, acquisitions and joint ventures across a wide range of industries. She delivers a strong focus on business and corporate restructuring, corporate governance and financial matters, including company liquidations. 

Property Law is a particular interest and specialisation of Sarah’s, and although her experience is broad, she has a particular focus on commercial leasing and property development. Sarah has significant property experience acting for clients in the education, aviation, and hospitality sectors. 

Sarah joined Ford Sumner Lawyers in 2009, and having impressed with her skill and dedication to clients, she became a Partner in May 2017.

Sarah is an appointed ACC Senior Counsel, and a member of the New Zealand Law Society Property Law Section and the New Zealand Credit & Finance Institute.

In 2020, Sarah was recognised in NZ Lawyer’s inaugural ‘Rising Stars’ list which included up-and-coming stars in the legal profession who are committed to making a difference.

A keen swimmer, Sarah has embraced Ford Sumner Lawyers association with the Ocean Swim Series. She enjoys travelling, and spending time with her young family.

Professional Qualifications

LLB (Waikato University)
BMS First Class Hons (Waikato University)
Holder of a current practising certificate as a barrister and solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand

Memberships

New Zealand Law Society
New Zealand Society of Construction Law
New Zealand Credit and Finance Institute
New Zealand Law Society Property Section
New Zealand Airport Association
New Zealand Law Society Property Law Reform Panel