As the Family and Matrimonial Paralegal at Her Justice, Melanie (she/her) conducts client consultations and assesses eligibility for uncontested divorce representation, drafts legal documents, supports in-house matrimonial matters, and coordinates with volunteer attorneys and pro bono partners to facilitate client representation for survivors of intimate partner violence and financial abuse. Through this work, she helps advance Her Justice’s mission by increasing access to justice for low-income women in New York City. She also represents Her Justice through volunteer service with Fordham University’s Civil Legal Advice and Resource Office (CLARO), assisting with intake for individuals navigating consumer debt matters.
Prior to joining Her Justice, Melanie gained experience supporting survivors and underserved communities through roles with the Arlington County Public Defender’s Office, the D.C. Volunteer Lawyers Project, and the National Juvenile Justice Network. These experiences deepened her commitment to youth advocacy, family well-being, community safety, and trauma-informed legal support.
Melanie earned her bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Psychology from The George Washington University and completed her Paralegal Certificate, along with advanced coursework in Family and Immigration Law, through the Center for Legal Studies at SUNY Binghamton University.