About Us
Founded in 2012, The Family Law Project (FLP) was established to bridge the gap in quality, accessible legal representation. Born from a desire to challenge traditional structures, the firm was built on the belief that restrictive fees should not be a barrier to justice, nor should Legal Aid clients receive anything less than exceptional service.
We recognised early on that clients deserved better, leading us to champion innovative solutions such as fixed-fee agreements and deferred payment options for those who are asset-rich but cash-poor. Furthermore, we embraced technology, paperless files, and remote working long before they became industry standards, all to improve the experience for our clients and staff.
As a recognised leader in the Family Law space, The FLP has been consistently nominated as a national finalist in the “Thought Leader” and “Innovator of the Year” categories at the Women in Law Awards. Today, our leadership team and dedicated staff remain united in a passion for providing exceptional service and guiding clients through their Family Law journey with excellence.
The Family Law Project is an initiative provided by the skilled and caring team at Shorter Legal.
Our Team
Melissa Shorter
Director
LLM, GAICD
Melissa was admitted to practice in 2005 and has specialised in family law since that time. In 2009 Melissa qualified as an Independent Children’s Lawyer. Melissa has also undertaken a Masters of Law (Applied Law) majoring in Family Law. Recently, Melissa has graduated from the Australian Institute of Company Directors, providing firsthand experience in business matters.
With over 17 years’ experience, Melissa has the knowledge and skills to provide advice in all family situations and to advocate for you to achieve the best outcome. Melissa understands the challenges separation can have on families. Melissa has personal experience in raising a blended family, coupled with the additional challenges of being a Defence spouse. This gives Melissa a unique insight into difficulties faced by parties during, and as a result of, a separation.
Melissa has been recognised by her peers in the Doyles Guide in Leading Parenting, Custody & Children’s Matters Lawyers – South Australia in 2022, 2021, 2020 and 2019. This peer recognition identifies individuals who have been specifically highlighted for their expertise, abilities and experience in complex parenting/child custody issues and disputes. These rankings also include individuals with experience acting as an Independent Children’s Lawyer in relation to matters that may include, but are not limited to, family violence, physical, sexual and emotional abuse of children.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor of Laws, James Cook University
- Gradulate Diploma in Legal Practice, College of Law
- Independent Children’s Lawyer
- Master of Applied Law (Family Law)
- Graduate – Australian Institute of Company Directors
Tanya Donald
Associate
LLB
Tanya is admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of South Australia and the High Court of Australia.
Having a background as a Clerk in a family law Chambers, Tanya gained extensive knowledge of the processes for family law matters and as a result decided to undertake her law degree whilst raising her four young children; knowing that she wanted to assist families during separation upon completion of her studies.
Following her admission to the Supreme Court, Tanya commenced practice in family law and wills and estate law. Tanya recognises that the two areas of law regularly overlap and her experience in those areas provides her with insight to provide the right advice, when it matters, for her clients.
Tanya is client and outcome focussed, and her empathetic nature ensures that clients feel heard and supported.
Outside of the office you will find Tanya attending local football matches or dance concerts cheering on her children or out in her garden attending to her veggie patch.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor of Law – Charles Darwin University
- Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice – College of Law
- Admitted to Practice in the Supreme Court of South Australia
- Admitted to Practice in the High Court of Australia
Areas of Expertise
- Property Settlement
- Parenting Disputes
- Divorce Applications
- Intervention Orders (IVO)
- Wills & Estate
- Probate & Estate Administration
Elijah (Jiahong) Li
Solicitor
LLB, BArts (Philosophy)
Elijah was admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of South Australia and the High Court of Australia. He is fluent in Mandarin and brings valuable experience in Family Law.
Elijah began his legal career at a long-standing law firm in Wollongong, NSW, specialising in Family Law, Children’s Law, and Wills and Estates, where he worked closely with the firm’s directors.
Prior to joining Shorter Legal, Elijah worked at the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia, where he served as a Legal Case Manager to Judicial Registrars before becoming a Judge’s Associate. During his three years at the Court, Elijah gained valuable insight into Family Law litigation and the practical workings of the Australian Family Court system.
Outside of his legal career, Elijah is deeply committed to serving his local community. With nearly a decade of experience in Youth and Children’s Ministry, he has cultivated strong skills in mentoring and fostering relationships, while also developing deep insight into child development and mental health needs.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor of Laws, University of Wollongong
- Bachelor of Arts (Philosophy) with Distinction, University of Wollongong
- Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice, College of Law
- Youth Mental Health First Aid Accreditation, Mental Health First Aid Australia
Mikaela Shorter
Solicitor
Mikaela was admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of South Australia and the High Court of Australia in December 2025.
Mikaela has worked in the legal profession since 2018, in various capacities learning all aspects of legal practice with a background in personal injury. During a 2-week work experience placement with Shorter Legal, Mikaela found Family Law to be the area of law to develop her career in, finding a particular interest in understanding and advocating for the best interests of children in parenting dispute matters.
Mikaela also has an interest in Estate Planning and Administration, aiming to assist clients with what can be difficult decisions. While planning for what could happen after you pass, Mikaela seeks to help clients understand that Estate Planning is an opportunity to speak their wishes when they are no longer here.
While results driven Mikaela takes the time to understand client’s concerns, aiming to provide transparency in their matter when they require assistance.
Outside of work, Mikaela enjoys spending time with her family, cats, and baking for her family and friends.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor of Laws, Charles Darwin University (2025)
- Bachelor of International Studies, University of Adelaide (2018)
- Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice, College of Law (2025)
Aleesha DeGiglio
Solicitor & Barrister
It has to be said – our clients rave about Aleesha!
Aleesha grew up in a rural town and has a unique blend of relaxed but professional demeanour. Aleesha has over 6 years of extensive experience in Family Law, having previously headed the division at a mid-sized South Australian firm. She is well-versed in both property and parenting matters.
Aleesha is a strong advocate in court and also finds particular enjoyment in assisting clients through solicitor assisted mediation where negotiation can achieve quick results. Aleesha is also a qualified Independent Children’s Lawyer and is regularly appointed by the court to represent children.
Monica Brogden
Solicitor & Barrister
A client recently referred to Monica as The FLP’s “Secret Weapon”!
Monica has been with at The FLP for over 4 years, she brings a wealth of expertise to the table. Holding a Law Degree with Honours, she is well equipped to navigate the complexities of the Family Law jurisdiction. What sets Monica apart, however, is her exceptional ability to put clients at ease and guide them through what can be one of the most challenging times in their lives. Her exceptional communication skills, combined with her empathy and dedication, make Monica a valuable asset to our team.
Roger Tinning
Solicitor & Barrister
With over 17 years experience as a lawyer, Roger is able to offer our clients not only a wealth of knowledge but also an incredible sense of calmness.
Roger’s colleagues and clients often comment on Roger’s pragmatic, sensible and calm approach to all matters. This is likely one of the reasons that he has a high settlement rate on property matters.
Although working in the family law space for many years, Roger also has the advantage of having practised in general practice and also the criminal law jurisdiction which is often helpful given the cross over in jurisdictions.
During the interview for the role, Roger thought that one of the reasons to employ him would be the addition of his ‘mature’ headshot to our website. Thank you, Roger.
Cody McFarlane
Solicitor & Barrister
Cody McFarlane is a specialist Family Lawyer who also has completed his Masters of Family Law (College of Law). Cody has expertise in both parenting and property matters. He has worked on complex property matters and also previously worked in private firm with a very busy legal aid parenting practice. Cody enjoys appearing in Court including Conciliation Conferences and defended hearings but will also attempt to keep your matter of our Court where required.
Cody has a keen interest in chess, the ever popular Pickleball and also the UFC/MMA …. although he doesn’t personally participate in the latter!
Sue Haylock
Specialized Law Clerk
With over 18 years legal experience working in a general practice, Sue has experience in Family Law, Criminal Law, Wills & Estate and Conveyancing. Sue has also worked as Secretary for the Head of Family Law Section in the Legal Services Commission for 7 years.
In 2014 Sue was qualified as a Specialised Law Clerk undertaking a Diploma in Legal Studies with TAFE achieving High Distinction and Credits for subjects studied.
Sue is also a registered Justice of the Peace for South Australia – which provides a valuable service for our clients.
Sue has three children and currently three grandchildren. Her personal interests include V8 motor racing, speedway and drag racing. Sue enjoys watching cricket in the summer and in her down time enjoys crocheting and reading.
Suzie Lewis
Legal Assistant
Suzie has been working in the legal profession for over 30 years, commencing as a rounds clerk, then moving quickly to a receptionist/legal assistant.
Over the years Suzie has been assisting in all areas of law but she has always been drawn to the family law jurisdiction. At Shorter Legal, Suzie provides legal assistance to Melissa Shorter, Director and also manages our reception and enjoys assisting clients with any enquiry they may have.
In her spare time, you will find Suzie being an “Uber mum” (as her children would call it) and socialising with friends. Suzie is a keen and passionate supporter of AFL football – supporting the Adelaide Crows.
Book an OFFI
(Obligation Free First Interview!)
Book a 30 minute obligation free first appointment with a solicitor directly via our website. You can speak to us via phone, MS Teams or in person if we have meeting rooms nearby. This appointment will enable you to obtain information, advice and suggested ‘next steps’ which are specific to your family situation. Alternatively, if you prefer, jump right in for a fixed price 90 minute Strategy Session.
Book a Strategy Session
Have you already done a bit of research yourself? Are you wanting us to jump into detail and obtain more specific legal advice? Jump right in for a fixed price 90 minute Strategy Session.