Leo is our Principal solicitor and has over 30 years’ experience in law. He was admitted to the Supreme Court of South Australia as a barrister and solicitor in 1992.

He has extensive experience in many areas of law including Family Law, Wills and Estate Planning, Deceased Estate Administration, Deceased Estate Disputes, Commercial Law, Conveyancing, Civil Law and Criminal Law.

Leo grew up on a sheep station in the Flinders Ranges and before studying law, and was a farmer for over 20 years near Victor Harbor at Waitpinga.

Leo focuses on practical solutions for his clients and operates with openness and honesty.

Qualifications

• Member of the Law Society of South Australia
• Bachelor of Laws
• Bachelor of Science
• Admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of South Australia
• Admitted to practice in the High Court of Australia
• Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice
• Registered Arbitrator

Alison started with us in January 2025 as a solicitor heading the Wills and Estates Team.

She was admitted to practice in 2005 and has 20 years’ experience in law.

She has a broad knowledge in many areas of law but has a specialist interest and is highly experienced in the areas of Elder Law, Deceased Estate Administration, Wills and Estate Planning, Deceased Estate Disputes and Family Law including Property Settlements, Children’s Matters, Divorce and SACAT matters.

Alison is friendly, approachable, aims for cost-effective solutions for her clients, knows the value of clear communication and strives to support her clients every step of the way.

Qualifications

• Member of the Law Society of South Australia
• Bachelor of Laws
• Admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of South Australia
• Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice

Emma has been with us since 2016 and is our Registered Conveyancer and Paralegal.

She is highly experienced in the areas of Conveyancing, Wills and Estate Planning, Deceased Estate Administration and Contract and Deed preparation.

She also serves as our office manager, accounts payable and receivable and trust account manager.

Qualifications

• Advanced Diploma of Conveyancing

Jorgia is a dedicated member of our Wills and Estates team, working part-time while nearing completion of her Bachelor of Laws at Charles Darwin University. She brings a thoughtful and practical approach to her work, supported by her understanding of family law and other areas within the firm.
Originally from Strathalbyn, Jorgia now lives locally with her young family, balancing life as a busy mum with her growing legal career. She’s a valued part of our team, known for her calm, capable presence

Tully began her journey with Southern Vales Legal as a legal receptionist and is now a valued legal secretary, bringing her strong background in customer service into every aspect of her role. Her interest in law quickly grew, prompting her to enrol in a double degree—Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and Bachelor of Marketing at UniSA.

Tully primarily works in our family law team but also provides support across other areas of the firm. She brings enthusiasm, insight, and a practical application of her studies to her work each day. Tully is a local to the Fleurieu Peninsula and enjoys being part of a team that supports the community she calls home.

Carly
Carly has worked as a Legal Secretary for most of her career and brings with her a wealth of experience. She has worked across different areas of law, building strong legal knowledge and practical skills along the way. These days, she works mainly in our family law team, where she takes pride in providing thoughtful and reliable support to both clients and colleagues. Carly grew up on the Fleurieu Peninsula and now lives locally with her family — including a much-loved collection of cats and dogs.

Erica is the friendly face you’ll often see first when you visit Southern Vales Legal. She brings over 30 years of experience from the dental field, where she worked in reception, administration, and client care within busy professional environments. Erica brings warmth, professionalism, and efficiency to our front office and enjoys the fast-paced legal setting. She lives locally with her family and enjoys being part of the Fleurieu Peninsula community.