Michael A. Blanchard is a Director who was admitted to practice before the Connecticut Bar in 1982, the Massachusetts Bar in 1985, and the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Bar in 1992. Attorney Blanchard received his Bachelor’s of Arts degree in Mathematics from Assumption College in 1979 and his Juris Doctor from Western New England College School of Law in 1982. His practice concentration is in criminal and family law.
In his criminal practice Attorney Blanchard has appeared in Part B (misdemeanor) and Part A (serious felony) courts throughout the state. His diversified criminal cases have included murder, felony and misdemeanor assault, sexual assault, computer crimes, manslaughter and drunk driving defense. Attorney Blanchard has assisted those accused of crimes and their families throughout his legal career. Attorney Blanchard has testified as an expert witness concerning the standard of representation in criminal cases.
Attorney Blanchard’s varied family practice has included fully contested custody cases, relocation issues and allegations involving both physical and sexual abuse of children. He has served as a court appointed guardian ad litem representing children’s best interests in contested custody matters. Attorney Blanchard has served as a Special Master in the Regional Family Trial Docket since its inception, teaming with child psychologists to conduct full day pre-trials in highly contested custody cases. He has served as a Special Master in New London and Middlesex counties, conducting pre-trials in contested family matters. Attorney Blanchard has been appointed and currently serves on the Family Commission, a committee dedicated to reviewing and revising practice book rules in the family law area. Attorney Blanchard also served on The Child and Custody Matters Work Group, a committee organized to create and administer a training module for court appointed attorneys who represent minor children in contested custody cases.
Attorney Blanchard is a member of the Connecticut Bar Association, New London County Bar Association and Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation Bar Association. He is a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the Connecticut Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. Attorney Blanchard is an appointed member of the Windham County Grievance Panel. He is a member of the Labor & Employment and Sports and Entertainment law sections of the Connecticut Bar Association. Since 2019, Attorney Blanchard has been recognized by Super Lawyers ® for his work in criminal defense; no more than five percent of the lawyers in the state are selected for this honor. He was named to Best Lawyers in America 2023 Edition for Criminal Defense.
An Academic All-American and All-New England baseball player in college, he has coached numerous youth sports. Attorney Blanchard has been inducted in the Athletic Hall of Fame at Assumption College. He continues his involvement with young athletes as an advisor and agent.
