Director
Bev Clark
Bev was admitted as a practitioner in 1987 and joined Charlie Belperio in 1992 when Belperio Clark was formed.
Bev is committed to achieving the best outcomes for her clients. She understands the importance of exploring opportunities to resolve matters and works hard to ensure that her clients are supported and properly represented through the legal process.
In the early years of legal practice, Bev worked across a range of areas. Her experience in general practice enabled her to adopt a well-rounded approach to the area of family law which has been her focus for some time.
Bev is a nationally accredited mediator and has a strong commitment to dispute resolution for her clients. She believes that Court should only be a last resort.
Bev was one of the first two lawyers in SA trained in Collaborative Law and is a founding and active member of the Adelaide Collaborative Practice Group, and the Australian Association of Collaborative Professionals. She regularly presents on Collaborative Law and attends the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals’ conference in America each year. Bev has been involved in over 100 Collaborative cases including the first cases in SA. She now trains other Collaborative Professionals.
Bev has been a professional dog trainer in her spare time for almost 40 years. Bev also enjoys baking, travelling and spending time with her family.
Director
Erica Panagakos
Erica was admitted to practice in 2011, having graduated from the University of Adelaide with honours in 2010. Erica started her career in general practice at a long standing Adelaide law firm where she gained a solid grounding working on a variety of legal matters. Erica now practices predominantly in family law where she works hard to encourage sensible dispute resolution.
Having acted for a broad range of clients from individuals to large corporations, Erica is a passionate advocate and prides herself on delivering practical and cost effective legal advice.
Erica is a Collaboratively trained practitioner and is also an accredited mediator.
Erica is fluent in Italian and attributes her strong work ethic and ‘can do’ attitude to the values instilled in her by her immigrant grandparents.
When she is not at the office or supporting the Port Adelaide Football Club, Erica enjoys cooking, fitness and spending time with her family and friends.
Senior Associate
Alysia Panagakos
Alysia graduated from the University of Adelaide in December 2016 with a double degree in Law (with Honours) and Arts (majoring in Italian with a minor in French). She was admitted to legal practice in July 2017. Whilst studying fulltime, Alysia worked as a law clerk for 4 years at a long-standing Adelaide law firm where she supported solicitors and barristers with a range of tasks, assisted clients, and gained exposure to a variety of legal matters.
Alysia is approachable, efficient and diligent, and prides herself on delivering high quality work for her clients. She is fluent in Italian and French, and is passionate about foreign cultures having studied languages throughout her primary, secondary and tertiary education.
In her spare time, Alysia enjoys playing soccer. She has been playing since the age of 8 and currently plays in the Women’s National Premier League as a midfielder for Adelaide University Soccer Club. Alysia also enjoys cooking, keeping fit, watching foreign films, and spending time with family and friends.
Associate
Claire Lesiuk
Claire graduated from the University of Adelaide with a Bachelor of International Studies in 2016 and a Bachelor of Laws in 2017. She was admitted to legal practice in 2018.
Claire commenced her legal career in general practice at a long-standing Adelaide firm and thereafter worked exclusively in family law at a boutique firm.
Prior to joining Clark Panagakos Family Law, Claire was the Legal Associate to the Honourable Justice Kari in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia Division 1. This afforded Claire the opportunity to work on family law matters at a national level, travelling to interstate registries. Having worked nationally Claire has a broader knowledge of litigation, the judicial system and court processes which is invaluable to herself, and her clients.
Claire is friendly, enthusiastic and is committed to working efficiently to deliver a high-quality legal service.
When Claire is out of the office you will find her on the Adelaide coast racing yachts as a member of the Royal South Australian Yacht Squadron, or with her love of camping, exploring the best of Australia’s outback and coastal regions.
Solicitor
Max Dilena
Max graduated from the University of Adelaide in May 2022, completing a Bachelor of Law and Bachelor of Commerce with a major in management. He was recently admitted to legal practice in August 2023.
During his time as a student, Max gained valuable practical experience by working as a family law paralegal. In this role, he assisted solicitors, drafted legal documents, and familiarized himself with the intricacies of family law. This hands-on experience has equipped Max with a solid foundation upon which he can continue to build his career in the field.
Described as a diligent and client-focused practitioner, Max is dedicated to helping individuals navigate the challenges of family law.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Max is an avid sports enthusiast. During weeknights, he actively participates in casual basketball, indoor soccer, and netball teams. On weekends, you can find him playing tennis for Stirling Tennis Club or cheering for his favourite AFL team, the Hawthorn Hawks.
Max’s diverse interests and experiences, both in the legal field and in his personal life, contribute to his well-rounded and dynamic character.
