Director
Melissa Shorter
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
Associate
Tanya Donald
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
Solicitor
Elijah (Jiahong) Li
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
Law Clerk
Mikaela Shorter
Mikaela completed her law degree in July 2025 and has commenced her Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice, aiming to be admitted as a Solicitor in late 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 advocacy and the importance of upholding the safety and the best interests of children.
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.
Specialized Law Clerk
Sue Haylock
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.
Legal Assistant
Suzie Lewis
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.
Professional Associations & Memberships
Shorter Legal is proud to offer a special discounted rate on all fees for current and previous serving Australian Defence Force Members upon presentation of Veterans Card or Defence ID.
Being a spouse of a veteran, Melissa has a personal understanding of the unique challenges Defence life places upon the family unit and is able to provide advice relevant to military life.
Thank you for your service.
