Working with children in the justice system requires more than legal expertise; it requires compassion, communication, and a deep understanding of how to advocate for a child’s rights and wellbeing.
To support and develop best practice across the profession, NLS Law is proud to present the Independent Children’s Lawyer (ICL) Workshop Series, led by Neisha Shepherd, Accredited Specialist in Children’s Law, Independent Children’s Lawyer, and one of Australia’s most respected voices in child advocacy.
With over 37 years’ experience working with children — including more than two decades representing them in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia, the Children’s Court, and the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal — Neisha brings an unmatched depth of insight into how lawyers can give genuine effect to a child’s voice in legal proceedings.
About the Workshops
This small-group, in-person series is designed for ICLs and children’s lawyers who want to strengthen their practical advocacy skills and confidence in interviewing and representing children. Each workshop is highly interactive, combining real-world examples with guided reflection and hands-on learning.
Participants will explore effective communication techniques, trauma-informed approaches, and strategies to balance the child’s expressed wishes with their best interests — all within the framework of the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) and the National ICL Guidelines.
Numbers are strictly limited to ensure meaningful engagement, personal feedback, and open discussion about the challenges faced in practice.
Workshop Series Overview
- Workshop 1: Strategies to Work as an ICL and Interviewing Children
- Workshop 2: Advanced Interviewing Techniques from an ICL Perspective
- Workshop 3: Communicating Children’s Views to the Court
- Workshop 4: Advocacy as an ICL at Interim and Final Hearings
- Workshop 5: Dealing with Parties and Explaining Orders to Children
- Workshop 6: Building Professional Resilience and Supporting Protective Networks
Each workshop can be attended individually or as part of the full series. Sessions are conducted in person to encourage interactive, immersive learning.
Register your interest and we’ll be in touch with the upcoming schedule.