A Few Words About Mike Sanders

“I spent my formative years in Elizabeth City and Nags Head, North Carolina. In 1986 I graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a degree in journalism and in 1990 I received my J.D. cum laude from Campbell University. I was sworn in to practice law in August 1990 and have practiced mostly in the First Judicial District ever since. The First Judicial District consists of Dare, Currituck, Pasquotank, Camden, Currituck, Chowan and Gates counties. I also handle cases in Tyrrell, Hyde and Washington counties. I have appeared in court almost every day North Carolina’s courts have been in session for over 30 years. The courtroom is truly my second home.

My cases have also been broadcast on Court TV and featured on the television show “The Forensic Files.”
I have won many “NOT GUILTY” verdicts in virtually every type of misdemeanor case, including DWIs, felony drug cases, rape, murder, arson and assault. I have also negotiated favorable non-jury dispositions in virtually every type of criminal case.

I have represented many first time offenders, often young adults who are living on the Outer Banks for the summer. My approach to these cases has always been to assist the client in keeping a “clean record” and I have been successful with this approach over the years. With the client’s permission, I am always happy to discuss these cases with the client’s parents, who are justifiably concerned.

I also maintain a very busy Federal practice, dealing primarily with offenses occurring on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore and Waterfowl Offenses, such as shooting over bait. These cases, while often misdemeanors, can have very serious consequences and should not be taken lightly. I am one of the very few lawyers who regularly appear in Federal Court for offenses committed on the Seashore and Waterfowl Offenses set for Elizabeth City’s Federal Courthouse.

I have served as President of the First Judicial District Bar and was recognized by the North Carolina Supreme Court for my work on behalf of abused, neglected and dependent children in Pasquotank County. I have served many terms on the Vestry of Christ Episcopal Church, and have served on many local boards, including Arts of the Albemarle, Gateway Bank, the Boys’ and Girls’ Club, Benjamin House and Skills, Inc.