Fiona Merrylees

DIRECTOR

Fiona Merrylees leads the Family Law department of SMR Legal. With over 30 years’ experience across a wide range of legal practice areas, there is rarely a legal issue Fiona has not dealt with.

Fiona commenced her family law career in 1994 under the guidance of Suzanna Sheed. After a break from the law to have a family of her own, Fiona returned to work with Suzanna Sheed in Shepparton in 2005. Fiona and Suzanna Sheed were both part of the original SMR Legal team when it was established in 2011. Fiona has a well-earned reputation as a compassionate, understanding and determined lawyer. She believes that a resolution of matters before they reach court is the best outcome for families to remain in control of their circumstances, but also fights hard for her clients when court is the only remaining option.

Fiona has acted in a broad range of family law matters, including multi-million dollar property divisions relating to rural properties and circumstances where inter-generational conflicts must be resolved. Her rural background provides her with an expert, detailed understanding of the issues faced by local families.
Fiona’s work outside her legal practice also reflects her deep understanding of family, community and business issues. She is Deputy Chair of the Goulburn Valley Grammar School Board, and was previously President of her children’s primary school. She is a past Director of the Goulburn Murray Credit Union, where she served for over 15 years, and for the North East Credit Union and Goulburn Valley Water.