She joined the Estate Planning and Probate Practice Group at Killgore Pearlman, P.A., in 2023, where she now leads and manages the practice group. Prior to joining Killgore Pearlman, P.A, Melissa was the founder and principal attorney at an estate planning firm in South Florida.

Melissa’s previous experience includes working for a Fortune 260 company for over 12 years representing management in collective bargaining disputes. She served as a Director of Labor Relations, Arbitration & Strategy, leading a team of legally trained managers in the handling of contract disputes, negotiating agreements, and effective claim settlements of high liability cases.

Melissa is a 5th generation Florida native originally from Jacksonville, Florida. She obtained her Bachelor’s and Juris Doctor with honors from the University of Florida. During law school, Melissa served as a Teaching Assistant for Legal Research and Writing and Appellate Advocacy. She also was an advocate for Gator Team Child, representing children in education matters. Melissa also holds a Master of Science in Management from Troy University. Intellectual curiosity coupled with the enactment of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 compelled Melissa to earn an LL.M. in Taxation at Boston University School of Law, where she received an Estate Planning Certificate.

Melissa’s practice is concentrated in the areas of estate planning, guardianships, probate and trust administration. Melissa’s unique background which combines legal experience, corporate management, business ownership, people leadership, and professionalism are difficult to find in the legal profession. Melissa’s main objective is to provide a compassionate center of excellence for her clients.