Melissa earned her undergraduate degree from the University of South Florida and her law degree from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale. Her legal career began at just 18 years old when she joined the Public Defender’s Office, interviewing clients in jail. That early experience gave her a deep understanding of the challenges faced by those accused of crimes and ignited her passion for criminal defense.

In 2001, Melissa moved to Orlando and continued her work at the Public Defender’s Office, where she served for 18 years—14 of them in management roles. In 2019, she entered private practice with small firms focused on criminal defense. A Florida Bar Board Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer since 2006, Melissa made history when she was elected Public Defender, bringing decades of experience and dedication to her leadership role.

Outside the courtroom, Melissa enjoys spending time with her husband Doug, their twin boys Jackson and Carson, and their dog Mollie.