Attorney Bio
Lora Stuart Shortt, Esq. brings more than two decade of legal experience to the Columbia, South Carolina office of Melone Hatley, P.C. Drawing on her extensive litigation experience, Lora offers clients the benefit of a seasoned trial attorney who understands high-stakes disputes and how to protect her clients’ interests both inside and outside the courtroom.
Lora has built her career around advocating for families through some of life’s most challenging transitions. She began representing clients in South Carolina family courts early in her practice and deepened her focus on divorce, custody, and support matters after founding her own firm. Over the years, she has guided clients through every stage of the family law process, earning a reputation for steady counsel and strong courtroom advocacy. Her clients appreciate her meticulous preparation, persistence, and confident presence in the courtroom.
Lora earned her Juris Doctor from Ohio Northern University College of Law, where she honed her skills in legal research and advocacy. She holds both a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice and an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Paralegal Studies. Lora is known for putting families first, whether negotiating a fair settlement or litigating complex custody and high net worth divorce disputes.
Education
- Ohio Northern University Claude C. Pettit College of Law, Juris Doctor
- Marshall University, B.A. in Criminal Justice, A.A.S. in Legal Studies
Memberships
- South Carolina State Bar
- Lexington County Bar Association
- Richland County Bar Association
- South Carolina Women’ Law Association
- South Carolina Bar Children’s Law Committee
