
Biography
Following her return to Austin, Melissa spent six years as a trial attorney for the Office of the Attorney General of Texas. In this role she gained extensive litigation experience in the areas of employment and civil rights. Melissa tried two federal civil rights jury trials, obtaining verdicts in favor of her clients in actions brought under 42 U.S.C. section 1983 and the Equal Pay Act.
In 2016, Melissa was asked to serve as one of three attorneys in the Attorney General's newly-formed Human Trafficking and Transnational/Organized Crime Section. In this role she tried two felony human trafficking jury trials and obtained convictions on all counts. After leaving the AG's Office, Melissa spent three years as Of Counsel for Andy Brown & Associates, where she handled appeals before the Fifth Circuit and the Texas First Court of Appeals in addition to drafting dispositive motions in the trial courts.
As Of Counsel with Ellwanger Henderson, Melissa now utilizes her litigation experience on behalf of people facing employment discrimination or other violations of their civil rights. Melissa is honored to help her clients navigate the legal system to obtain justice.
Outside of the law, Melissa keeps busy with her three small children.
Bar Admissions
- Texas, 2009
Practice Areas
- Employment 50%
- Civil Rights 50%
Languages
- English
Current Employment Position
- Of Counsel