Dr Stephanie Abela was admitted to the local bar in 2015 after reading law at the University of Malta. Her academic qualifications include a Bachelor of Laws with European Studies, Diploma of Notary Public and a Doctoral Degree in Law.

Her Doctoral thesis dealt with the recently enacted Embryo Protection Act (Chapter 524 of the Laws of Malta). In her thesis she focused on the bioethical values that were at the centre of debate at the time. These were examined within the context of fundamental rights and freedoms with particular emphasis on women, the unborn fetuses, also exploring principles of access to and availability of IVF.

She joined Vincent Micallef & Associates in early 2014 as a trainee. She is now a Partner in the Firm.

Dr Abela was involved in leading student organizations, including the Għaqda Studenti tal-Liġi. As a member of this organization she was involved in the publication of the Law Journal “Id-Dritt”.

Her main areas of practice include Criminal Law, Debt Collection, Immigration and Family Law. Dr Abela is in charge of the Constitutional Law and Family Law Departments within the firm. Dr Abela has had considerable exposure in the field of Alternative Dispute Resolution.

Dr Abela is a member of the Chamber of Advocates, the Local Bar Association.