Chris Nyst

Chris is a distinguished and multifaceted legal professional, renowned for his extensive expertise in the realms of Criminal, Traffic & Corporate Regulatory Law, as well as Family Law. A former senior partner at Minter Ellison on the Gold Coast, Chris has built a formidable reputation as one of Australia's most experienced criminal lawyers, adept at navigating complex legal landscapes with finesse and precision. Beyond his legal acumen, Chris is an accomplished novelist and filmmaker. His passion for storytelling led to notable recognition in the literary world, with his debut novel, "Cop This!", earning critical acclaim. Subsequently, "Gone" was shortlisted for the Queensland Premier’s Literary Awards, and "Crook as Rookwood" garnered the prestigious Ned Kelly Award. His latest novel, "Millen," further cemented his status as a celebrated author, winning a Readers Favourite Award in 2023. Chris's foray into film was marked by success with the creation of "Gettin’ Square," a film he wrote and co-produced, which received the 2003 Lexus IF Award for Best Screenplay. This venture exemplified his ability to translate legal narratives into engaging cinematic experiences, showcasing his diverse talents beyond the courtroom. His directorial efforts in "Crooked Business" further underscored his prowess in the film industry with accolades to match. In the academic sphere, Chris serves as an Adjunct Professor of Law at Griffith University, sharing his profound insights and experiences through guest lectures and speeches. His dedication to legal education is complemented by his co-founding role in the Griffith University Innocence Project, where he mentors law students committed to aiding the wrongly convicted. A past member of the Criminal Law Committee of the Queensland Law Society and former Chair of the Gold Coast City Council Safety Committee, Chris's influence extends to various legal and civic arenas. Additionally, his leadership roles, including a presidency at the Gold Coast District Law Association, underscore his commitment to enhancing the legal community. Chris's diverse career, marked by legal excellence, literary accomplishments, and cinematic innovation, reflects a dynamic professional committed to advancing justice and enriching cultural narratives.