About Us
A Law Firm That Puts Families First
At Family First Lawyers, we believe family law should be about care, clarity, and moving forward—not conflict. Founded by Principal Solicitor Ammara Akbar, our practice was built to do things differently: to provide practical, compassionate guidance that helps families navigate life’s toughest transitions with dignity and confidence.
Our Philosophy
We believe in leading with empathy, prioritising peaceful resolution wherever possible, and standing with strength when it’s truly needed. This balanced approach ensures you feel supported, understood, and empowered at every step.
Empathy First
We understand the human side of family law.
Resolution focused
We aim for practical outcomes without unnecessary conflict.
Strength when needed
If litigation becomes necessary, we advocate firmly while keeping your goals in sight.
Our Approach
Every family is unique, and so is every case
We take the time to truly listen, explain your options in plain language, and create a tailored strategy that supports your long-term wellbeing. Whether through mediation or court representation, we guide you with integrity, transparency, and care.
our team
Compassionate experts, by your side
At Family First Lawyers, we’re more than just legal professionals — we’re people who genuinely care about helping families find clarity and peace of mind. Our small, dedicated team is here to guide you through life’s toughest transitions with empathy, strength, and practical expertise.
Ammara Akbar
Principal Solicitor
“In family law, the goal isn’t to win — it’s to find a way forward that protects what matters most.”
Ammara founded Family First Lawyers to bring a more human-first approach to family law. She holds degrees in Law and Arts, and was admitted to both the Supreme Court of NSW and the High Court of Australia in 2018.
Before moving to Nowra, Ammara practised employment, family, and criminal law in Sydney. Since 2020, she has focused exclusively on family law in the Shoalhaven, working on matters including divorce, parenting arrangements, relocation cases, property settlements, de facto relationships, and Binding Financial Agreements.
Ammara is on the Legal Aid Panel and has been appointed to the Independent Children’s Lawyer Panel by Legal Aid NSW—work she deeply values. Her priority is always to preserve family relationships where possible and to achieve early, practical resolution through a holistic, resolution-first approach.
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Bachelor of Laws
Bachelor of Visual Arts
Graduate Diploma in Professional Legal Practice
National Training Program for Independent Children’s Lawyers
Admitted to the Supreme Court of NSW & High Court of Australia
Tasman Phillips
Solicitor
“In family law, law and procedures meet the core of human relationships — but it’s also about guiding people with empathy and strength.”
Tasman joined Family First Lawyers in 2024 as a graduate solicitor. With degrees in Arts (Psychology) and Laws, she was admitted to the Supreme Court in 2023 and the High Court of Australia in 2024.
Before returning to Nowra, Tasman gained valuable experience clerking in criminal and family law, and working as an Associate to a Magistrate in the Local Court. At Family First Lawyers, she focuses on parenting and property matters, regularly appearing in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia, including in urgent recovery applications and relocation matters.
Her psychology background gives her a unique, client-focused approach—ensuring families feel heard, supported, and guided toward practical, cost-effective outcomes.
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Bachelor of Laws
Bachelor of Arts (Psychology)
Graduate Diploma in Professional Legal Practice
Admitted to the Supreme Court of NSW & High Court of Australia
Cathy Davey
Executive Assistant
“Working in family law allows me to be a steady hand during life’s most vulnerable moments.”
Cathy brings more than 10 years of experience working exclusively in family law. As Executive Assistant to the Principal Solicitor, she plays a vital role in client care and practice management, ensuring every matter runs smoothly and every client feels supported.
With a background in both family law and corporate settings, Cathy combines professionalism, discretion, and compassion in her work. She understands the emotional weight clients carry and takes pride in creating a calm, organised, and empathetic experience.
Joy Cavanagh
Legal Administration Assistant
“You’re allowed to begin again — with boundaries, with grace, and with support.”
Joy joined Family First Lawyers in 2024, providing valuable support across reception and office administration. With over 10 years of customer-facing experience, she is known for her approachable manner, professionalism, and commitment to client care.
She has a particular interest in family preservation and parenting matters, and is committed to furthering her knowledge of family law. Joy has completed her Certificate IV in Legal Services, is a Justice of the Peace in NSW, and is currently studying an Associate Degree of Law (Paralegal Studies).
Cody Turner
Administration Assistant
“In family law, a huge thing to remember is that to us the clients are one of many matters, but to them this is their entire world.”
Cody re-joined the Shoalhaven community after working in family law firms across the Illawarra. She brings warmth, empathy, and lived experience to her role, supporting clients with a positive, approachable attitude.
Having started her career in family law in 2017, Cody has developed strong administration skills and a genuine care for helping families through difficult times. She balances professionalism with a bubbly, welcoming personality, making clients feel at ease from the moment they walk in.
Our Credentials
Excellence in Family Law
Accredited as Independent Children’s Lawyers
Legal Aid NSW Panel Lawyers
Member of Law Society of NSW
Recognised locally for our commitment to providing, accessible, inclusive and client-first family law services that put people at the heart of every matter
