We’re Here to Help
We understand Legal Situations involving you or your family can be overwhelming, emotional and stressful. NLS Law are here to help guide you through what can feel like a legal minefield, and provide compassionate, clear, and expert advice every step of the way.
At NLS Law, we prioritise early resolution and mediation to avoid unnecessary delays and costs, however we are fully prepared to represent you in court when required and have extensive litigation court experience. We take the time to truly listen, understand your concerns, and provide advice that is both strategic and supportive. Our team brings deep knowledge and experience to every case, and aims to help you achieve the best possible outcome.
NLS Law is proud to have strong connections across the legal profession and are members of many respected Law Societies, Institutes, and Associations. Our firm has appeared in a number of high-profile and precedent-setting cases, including in the High Court of Australia, Full Court of the Family Court, Supreme Court of NSW, and the NSW Court of Appeal.
A Boutique Firm with Specialist Focus
NLS Law is a boutique law firm with offices in Newcastle and Sydney. Founded by our Solicitor Director, Neisha Shepherd, an Accredited Specialist in Children’s Law, our firm was built on the premise that every client deserves not just legal representation, but true understanding and support through their most challenging times. We are committed to creating meaningful impact through the law.
Decades of Legal Experience and Leadership
With decades of combined experience and a strong presence in both major cities and regional areas, we represent clients in courts across New South Wales and Australia, including appearances in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia, NSW Court of Appeal, Supreme Court of NSW, NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT), Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT), Children’s Court of NSW, and the High Court of Australia.
Personalised Attention & National Reach
Our boutique structure means every client benefits from the expertise of a close-knit team dedicated to their case, who values professional relationships and clear communication.
Our Values
Understanding
We start with empathy and professional experience. Every client brings a unique story, and we take the time to listen and to truly understand their concerns, circumstances, and goals. From complex parenting matters, property separation, and child protection proceedings, to Appeals and administrative reviews, we’re here to make the legal process more transparent and less daunting.
Assistance & Access
We provide support across a wide range of communities and people including vulnerable individuals, families in crisis, and those in remote or regional areas who might otherwise face barriers to legal resources. Through options for flexible digital consultations and a client-first approach, we ensure our support is accessible, respectful, and tailored.
Resolution
Our focus is always on practical, effective solutions. We work to resolve matters quickly and cost-effectively, avoiding litigation where possible, while being fully prepared to advocate in court when needed. We aim to ease the burden, not add to it.
Community Support
Giving back is part of who we are. NLS Law actively contributes to charitable organisations and causes that align with our values, particularly those supporting women, children, survivors of abuse, and marginalised communities. We believe in standing up for justice both in and outside the courtroom.
Expertise
Our knowledgeable legal team brings specialist skills, courtroom experience, and strategic insight to every case. We practice with integrity and clarity, empowering clients to move forward with confidence, no matter how complex the legal issue.
Justice
Our passion for social justice and human rights fuels everything we do. We are proud to represent people from all walks of life, with compassion, courage, and a commitment to creating meaningful impact through law.
Boutique By Design, Powerful in Practice
Tailored Service
& National Impact
At NLS Law, our boutique structure is an advantage, not a limitation. It enables us to deliver individualised service, faster response times, and strategies tailored to each client’s unique circumstances, without sacrificing the scope or power of a larger practice.
Courtroom Experience & Broad Reach
We operate in courts across NSW and nationally, including the Federal Circuit and Family Court, Children’s Court, NCAT, and Supreme Court of NSW. Our team has experience managing complex, high-profile cases, and we’re regularly involved in matters with broad legal and societal impact.
Close-Knit Team
& Consistent Care
Whether you’re in a major city or a remote community, our structure allows us to deliver accessible, high-level legal support, with the continuity and care that only a close-knit, experienced team can provide.