Meet the Team
 | Principal LawyerTandy MachisaPrincipal Lawyer | Your Defence AdvocatesTandy Machisa is a dedicated criminal defence lawyer with a single focus: securing the best possible outcome for every client. She is a fierce, strategic advocate—measured in approach, meticulous in preparation, and unwavering in court, who has earned a reputation across NSW for professionalism, empathy and results. Tandy holds a degree in psychology, which she applies daily to her practice. It informs her trauma-informed, client-centred approach; sharpens her assessment of witness credibility and jury dynamics; and guides negotiations, cross-examination preparation and sentencing strategy. Clients benefit from clear communication, realistic risk assessments and support that recognises the human impact of criminal proceedings. Before founding Your Defence Advocates, Tandy worked in prosecution at the NSW Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP). That experience gives her rare insight into how the Crown builds cases, evaluates evidence and makes charging and plea decisions. Knowledge she now uses to anticipate strategy, identify weaknesses and secure better outcomes for her clients. Tandy has defended a wide range of serious matters, from complex drug cases; including supply (including commercial) and importation—to offences against the person such as sexual assault, assault occasioning actual bodily harm (AOABH), and homicide matters. Her practice also spans driving offences, from drink and drug driving to dangerous or negligent driving occasioning death. She appears regularly in the Local, District and Supreme Courts of New South Wales, running defended hearings, trials and sentences, and managing bail applications (including weekend and Supreme Court bail), severity and conviction appeals, and mental health applications (s 14). Tandy is known for pressure-testing the Crown case, negotiating practical resolutions where appropriate, and being fully prepared to take matters to hearing or trial. Beyond serious crime, she represents clients throughout the Sydney metropolitan area in summary matters, including PCA/DUI, drug possession, AVOs, common assault, larceny and licence appeals. Whatever the allegation, she ensures clients are informed, supported and confidently guided through each step. Tandy’s work has been featured by major media outlets, including Sky News, The Daily Telegraph, and The Sydney Morning Herald, reflecting her involvement in high-profile and complex cases. Calm under pressure and clear in communication, Tandy provides straight-talking advice, realistic risk assessments and relentless advocacy from first mention to final outcome. If you need a lawyer who is thorough, compassionate and determined, Tandy Machisa is the advocate you want in your corner. Tandy Machisa Free Consultation |