Claire Nielsen

Claire Nielsen is the Principal Solicitor at Shipton & Associates, bringing over two decades of legal experience with a focus on family law. Claire’s legal career began as a legal secretary in a busy family law office before she joined Shipton & Associates as a paralegal in 2000, simultaneously pursuing her Diploma in Law part-time. She graduated from the Legal Profession Admission Board in 2008, earning the Thompson Legal Prize for Family Law. Admitted as a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of NSW and the High Court of Australia in 2008, Claire’s broad legal experience encompasses family law, wills and estates, conveyancing, and criminal law. Since acquiring Shipton & Associates in 2017, Claire has led the practice, offering clients expert guidance through complex family law matters including divorce, parenting arrangements, property settlements, family violence issues, child support, and spousal maintenance. In recognition of her expertise, Claire is an Accredited Family Law Specialist and was appointed as an Independent Children’s Lawyer in 2020, underscoring her commitment to supporting vulnerable individuals and families with professionalism and empathy. She is actively involved in the legal community as a member of the Law Society of NSW, the Northern Beaches Solicitors Association, the North Shore Family Law Practice Group, and the Northern Beaches Collaborative Law Practice Group. Claire also contributes her time as a volunteer at the Manly Community Legal Centre, reflecting her dedication to accessible justice. Outside the office, Claire balances her professional life with her passion for horses, spending quality time with her son Leo and her horse Zorro. Claire Nielsen combines legal expertise with a compassionate approach, offering clients a personalised and effective experience in family law.