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Ben Nicholson

Pro Bono Associate

Newcastle

+61 2 4989 2948

Ben has over seven years’ experience in the social justice and legal assistance sector. 

EXPERIENCE & EXPERTISE

Ben supports the University of Newcastle Legal Centre, providing legal advice to vulnerable clients and supervising law students as they complete their professional placements. He assists students in developing their practical legal skills while advancing the firm’s commitment to improving access to justice for disadvantaged communities.

Ben has previously held senior positions in community legal centres and the Aboriginal Legal Service, where he represented clients in care and protection proceedings, family law matters, domestic violence cases, and criminal matters. He has managed Apprehended Violence Order (AVO) duty and traffic clinics across Newcastle and the Central Coast, ensuring timely and effective legal support for clients in urgent situations.

In addition to being a skilled advocate, Ben is passionate about mentoring and capacity building. He has provided leadership, coaching, and guidance to junior lawyers, PLT students, undergraduate law students, and volunteers. Ben is known for taking a collaborative approach to legal service delivery, ensuring culturally safe and trauma-informed practices that meet the unique needs of clients. He demonstrates a strong commitment to social impact and meaningful community outcomes.

Ben’s prior experience includes working for the NSW Police Force and Centrelink, where he developed strong skills in negotiation, stakeholder engagement, and data-driven decision-making.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

  • Representing clients in care and protection proceedings, family law matters, domestic violence cases, and criminal matters
  • Partnering with local courts to establish traffic duty clinics and super call over lists, streamlining court processes and delivering improved outcomes for clients.

Expertise

Qualifications

  • Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice, 2018, The College of Law Australia
  • Bachelor of Laws, 2016, Southern Cross University
  • Bachelor of Business, 2009, University of Newcastle

Memberships

  • Law Society of NSW