Melissa joined the Federal Public Defender’s Office of the Western District of Virginia in 2024. Before joining the office, she accumulated 28 years of experience in the legal field, where she held roles from Legal Assistant to Forensic Administrative Specialist.

She holds an Associate of Science degree and is working on a Bachelor of Individualized Study at James Madison University. 

Melissa believes in the importance of balancing work and personal life, so when she isn’t working, she is spending time with her family, friends, and her dog. She also enjoys gardening, home projects, traveling, and reading.