Business Details
40 Years
experience
Your Trusted Legal Partner in McLaren Vale
Southern Vales Legal has been safeguarding the Fleurieu Peninsula and Southern Suburbs communities since 1986, establishing itself as the region's go-to law firm for plain-speaking, affordable legal services. Our team of lawyers, conveyancers, barristers, and support staff deliver seamless, start-to-finish legal solutions from offices in McLaren Vale, Victor Harbor, Kangaroo Island, and the Adelaide CBD. We pride ourselves on combining technical legal expertise with common sense to provide practical, cost-effective solutions tailored to individual client needs. Our commitment to accessibility ensures clients can meet us in-office, at home, farm, or business, after hours, or via phone/video. With a focus on clear communication, we translate legal complexities into plain English, ensuring clients understand their position and next steps.Our comprehensive services span Wills, estates, conveyancing, family, commercial, agribusiness, criminal, and civil law. We serve individuals, small to large businesses, farmers, retirees, and community organizations, prioritizing listening and practical problem-solving. Our team's diverse experience from city-based firms, business ownership, and farming informs our client-centric approach. We offer free initial consultations, fixed and competitive fees, and a commitment to transparency. Our liability is limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation, underscoring our adherence to professional standards.
Services
Wills and Estates
Conveyancing
Family Law
Commercial Law
Criminal Law
Civil Litigation
Agribusiness Law
Deceased Estates
Property Law
Legal Consultation
Details
- Year established: 1986
Highlights and features
- Free first consultation with a qualified lawyer
- Fixed and competitive fees with upfront quotes
- Local access for meetings at your home or business
- Complete end-to-end legal services under one roof
- Plain-English advice ensuring clear understanding
What people say
Highly recommended
Knowledgeable and prompt
Excellent service
Compassionate and professional
Stress-free experience
Services
Wills and Estates
We specialise in creating legally sound Wills, Powers of Attorney, and Advanced Care Directives. Our services ensure your wishes are clearly documented for asset distribution, guardianship, and healthcare decisions. With expertise in estate administration and dispute resolution, we help clients protect their legacies and navigate complex probate processes while maintaining compliance with South Australian legislation.
Family Law
Our family law practice handles property settlements, parenting orders, and divorce proceedings with sensitivity and precision. We assist clients with mediation, court representation, and legal aid applications while addressing child custody and financial arrangements. Our team prioritises amicable resolutions while preparing robust court strategies when necessary, ensuring client interests are protected throughout the process.
Conveyancing
We manage residential and commercial property transactions including purchases, sales, leases, and transfers. Our dedicated conveyancing team ensures compliance with legal requirements, handles title searches, and facilitates smooth settlements. We provide clear guidance on contract terms and coordinate with financial institutions to deliver efficient property transaction solutions for individuals and businesses.
Commercial Law
Our commercial law services cover contract drafting, business restructuring, shareholder agreements, and debt recovery. We advise on corporate governance, commercial transactions, and regulatory compliance while representing clients in business disputes. With practical commercial awareness, we help businesses navigate legal challenges and implement risk management strategies to support sustainable growth.
Civil Litigation
We represent clients in civil disputes involving property, contracts, consumer issues, and neighbour conflicts. Our approach combines negotiation, mediation, and court advocacy to achieve favourable outcomes. We handle debt recovery, injunction applications, and compensation claims while focusing on cost-effective resolutions that align with client objectives and legal precedents.
People
Leo Reynolds
Principal Solicitor / Barrister
With over 30 years' experience, Leo specialises in family law, Wills, estates, commercial law, and criminal law. Admitted to the Supreme Court of South Australia in 1992, he combines farming background with legal expertise to deliver practical solutions. Member of the Law Society of South Australia with qualifications in law, science, and legal practice.
Alison Tanzer
Solicitor
Leading the Wills and Estates team since 2025, Alison has 20 years' experience in elder law, estate planning, and family law. She focuses on cost-effective solutions while supporting clients through estate disputes and property settlements. Qualified with a law degree and legal practice diploma from the Supreme Court of South Australia.
Emma Jobson
Registered Conveyancer / Paralegal
Since 2016, Emma has specialised in conveyancing, estate planning, and contract preparation. She manages office operations and trust accounts while providing paralegal support. Holds an Advanced Diploma of Conveyancing and extensive experience in property transactions and legal documentation.
Carly Hamilton
Legal Secretary
With diverse experience from banking to environmental conservation, Carly brings solution-focused expertise to legal administration. She holds postgraduate qualifications in rehabilitation counselling, social work, and leadership programs, supporting clients with organisational and legal process knowledge.
Tully Best
Legal Secretary
Currently studying law and marketing, Tully supports family law cases while applying academic knowledge to practical legal work. A local Fleurieu Peninsula resident, she combines customer service experience with emerging legal expertise to deliver client-focused administrative support.
Questions
What areas of law does Southern Vales Legal specialise in?
We specialise in Wills and estates, conveyancing, family law, commercial law, criminal law, civil litigation, and agribusiness law across the Fleurieu Peninsula and Southern Suburbs.
Do you offer free initial consultations?
Yes, we provide free first consultations to discuss your legal matter and explain how we can assist with practical solutions tailored to your needs.
How are legal fees structured?
Most matters are quoted with fixed and competitive fees upfront to ensure transparency and avoid billing surprises throughout your legal process.
Which regions do you service?
We service the entire Fleurieu Peninsula, Kangaroo Island, Strathalbyn, Southern Coast, and Adelaide Southern Suburbs including McLaren Vale, Victor Harbor, and surrounding areas.
Can I access after-hours legal appointments?
Yes, we offer flexible meeting times including after-hours appointments at your home, business, or via phone/video conferencing for your convenience.
How can I book a legal consultation?
Call us at (08) 8323 9066 or book online for your free initial consultation with our experienced legal team in McLaren Vale.
