Nicola Gilford

Director & Accredited Specialist

Nicola is a highly respected legal practitioner with a distinguished career in family law and a steadfast commitment to advocacy for vulnerable individuals and families.

Nicola completed a double degree in Law and Behavioural Science from La Trobe University, Bundoora, in 2004. During her academic tenure, she co-authored a research paper published in the prestigious European Journal of Social Psychology, showcasing her strong foundation in human behaviour and the social sciences. While studying, Nicola also dedicated her time to community service through volunteer work with Victoria Legal Aid in Preston.

Nicola commenced her legal career at Tyler Tipping & Woods in February 2005. In 2008, she broadened her global perspective by taking a six-month sabbatical to live and travel across Europe. She was admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of Victoria and the High Court of Australia in 2006 and earned accreditation as a Specialist in Family Law in 2015.

Her practice areas include Family Law (property and parenting matters), Child Protection, and Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT) applications. Nicola is a trusted member of the Victoria Legal Aid Panel of Practitioners across Family Law, Child Protection, and Family Violence matters. She is also listed as a referral lawyer through the Victims Assistance Program, further reflecting her commitment to supporting those impacted by trauma.

With a child-focused approach, Nicola prioritises the best interests of children in her practice and is known for her empathy and insight when representing young persons aged 10 to 18 in Child Protection cases. Her extensive experience in negotiation and mediation underscores her goal of resolving disputes constructively and efficiently, without the need for litigation wherever possible.

As a Solicitor Advocate, Nicola regularly appears in the Children’s Court of Victoria, the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria, and the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia. Her courtroom advocacy is informed by years of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of the legal and emotional complexities facing her clients.

Nicola has been a key figure in the Gippsland legal community, serving as President of the Gippsland Law Association and holding executive positions since 2010. She was also a founding member of the Steering Committee for the Gippsland Family Law Pathways Network, demonstrating her leadership and commitment to collaborative legal practice.