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

Born in the Vale but raised predominantly on the Yorke Peninsula, Tania is at home working in a generalist firm where she provides advice and representation in the areas of Family Law, Criminal Law, Estate Planning and Administration, Family Inheritance Claims and Property Law. 

Tania completed a Bachelor of Laws in 2013 (with Honours) at Adelaide University and later completed a Masters in Applied Law (Family Law). She is admitted to the Supreme Court of South Australia and the High Court of Australia. 

With a career commencing in a generalist rural-based legal firm, to a city-based firm where she appeared daily in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia, Magistrates and District Court, she then operated her own successful business 2016 and 2022 while her daughters were very young, before returning to Adelaide in 2023.  Tania brings over a decade of experience in the law to the Southern Vales Legal team and an approachable, dedicated and hard-working nature.

 Tania has extensive experience practising in Family Law including both complex parenting and financial matters. She provides practicable, clear advice to help her clients navigate the family law system. She understands, both professionally and personally, that experiencing family law, whether it be through negotiations or litigation, can be an agonizing experience. 

 Being a dedicated and long-term outcome-driven lawyer, Tania provides clients with a calm and structured experience, ensuring they understand how the relevant law applies to the circumstances of their case and knowing what to expect at each stage of the process, whilst also being a very strong advocate for her clients.

While Tania is a practising solicitor, she also offers conveyancing services with the added advantage of her legal expertise. Having a lawyer on your side in conveyancing matters means you have the confidence of knowing that any complex issues, risks, or unexpected disputes can be identified and dealt with efficiently.  Tania has a strong interest in Property Law and taught in the property law team at Adelaide University.  

 Outside of the law, Tania enjoys family time with her partner and children, she enjoys keeping fit and taking in our beautiful wine region and coast.

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 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.

Hamish was born and raised in Victor Harbor and has strong ties to the local community and the Fleurieu Peninsula.

He is currently in his second year of a Bachelor of Laws at the University of Adelaide. Hamish brings enthusiasm, a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn to his role with our team, while continuing to build his knowledge and practical skills through his university studies.

Outside of study and work, he enjoys staying active and being involved locally. We look forward to supporting him as he progresses through his legal career.

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.

David supports our daily administration and document management. With a background in government administration and excellent IT skills, David often assists the team with technology and computer-related tasks. David lives in the local area with his wife and daughter. His interests outside of work are watching true crime documentaries, playing video games, reading autobiographies and has a keen interest in cars and the automotive industry. His friendly and supportive nature makes him a great member of the team here at Southern Vales Legal.

Coco takes her job very seriously. Whether it’s greeting clients or encouraging pats and smiles, she makes sure everyone feels welcome. While she does occasionally “supervise” the team, Coco’s main role is supporting both our staff and clients. She brings joy, friendliness, and a sense of ease to everyone who visits.

Coco frequently attends the office and often has clients drop in just to say hello. She’s such a favourite that we’re often asked, “Where’s Coco today?” . Proof that sometimes the best support person has four legs and a wagging tail.

Saber is the newest four-paw member of the Southern Vales Legal team. 

 Bred through Kaitler Kennels, he is an energetic, inquisitive little boy.

 Following in the footsteps of his mother, Marie, the highest awarded German Pinscher female in the history of the breed, worldwide, and his father, Dustin, born in USA where he became an American Champion and is a super fit boy who runs marathons and is a regular at Park run events.

 Saber, who has decided to trade show dog events for the comfort of our McLaren Vale and Victor Habor offices, will soon be out at the McLaren Vale Park Run with his mum.

If you need a friendly face or a snuggle, come in and meet Saber.