Johnston Withers

Janelle Sghirripa.

Paralegal

Janelle Sghirripa is a Paralegal at Johnston Withers, specialising in succession planning, estate administration, contested estates, and litigation.

Working on Kaurna lands (Adelaide)

Helping clients find clarity during challenging times, whether planning ahead or resolving estate matters has been a career highlight.

Janelle's experience

Janelle started working at Johnston Withers in 2016 as a legal assistant. After gaining experience across a wide range of legal areas, she soon discovered her passion for wills, estates, and litigation. Her dedication and hard work led to her promotion—first to Senior Legal Assistant, and in 2025, to Paralegal.

Janelle's expertise

Janelle works closely with the litigation team leader, specialising in defamation, contesting wills, and protecting estates. She has a solid understanding of the civil court process and is highly experienced in preparing and executing wills, powers of attorney, and advance care directives. Janelle has supported our senior solicitor in guiding countless clients through the administration and distribution of their loved ones' estates.

Outside of Law

Janelle enjoys travelling in her caravan with her young family and two golden retrievers.

Related posts...

Wills & Estates: Can I leave my estate to my cat or dog?

One popular question asked of clients when preparing their wills is whether or not they can leave some or all of their estate to their beloved cat or dog.

Your guide to will and estate planning

Here’s everything you need to know about will and estate planning, from what a will is to grounds for contesting a will.

Dying without a will – who is entitled to the Estate?

In circumstances where someone passes away without a valid Will they are said to have died intestate. The manner in which the Estate is administrated and distributed is set out in the Administration and Probate Act 1919 (SA).