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Overview

Melanie is a seasoned litigator who helps clients navigate complex toxic tort, product, and premises liability claims, with a particular focus in asbestos and talc litigation. She practices from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania as a member of our virtual office, The Link.

She defends manufacturers, contractors, suppliers, premises owners, and distributors against claims including product liability, wrongful death, personal injury, strict liability, and negligence. Melanie regularly represents clients facing allegations of injury or illness linked to industrial, commercial, and automotive products, as well as work performed in or around industrial facilities.

To provide a strategic defense, Melanie investigates claims, analyzes depositions, and develops approaches that demonstrate the absence of liability. While most matters resolve before trial, she is an active member of trial teams and is involved from case inception through resolution, including preparing witnesses, evidence, exhibits, and trial motions.

Known for her meticulous approach, Melanie advocates vigorously for clients at every stage of litigation. She carefully evaluates all evidence and legal arguments while maintaining close communication to deliver a well-informed, tailored defense. Clients value her determination, attention to detail, organization, and relentless commitment to uncovering facts and achieving the best possible outcomes. Her passion for each case drives her to work tirelessly on their behalf.

Melanie joined Husch Blackwell in 2026 with nearly 22 years of experience at a boutique firm focused on toxic tort litigation, where she began her career. That extensive experience enables her to spot key issues early and develop strong approaches for dismissals, settlement negotiations, or trial. Now at a national firm with expanded resources, she can investigate cases even more thoroughly and pursue additional strategies to protect clients’ interests.

Industries

Services

Education

  • J.D., University of Pittsburgh School of Law
  • B.A., University of Pittsburgh
    • Communications and Rhetoric

Admissions

  • Pennsylvania
  • Ohio
  • West Virginia
  • U.S. District Court, Western District of Pennsylvania
  • U.S. Supreme Court

Melanie is associated with the Washington, DC office for telephone and mail purposes only. She is not admitted to practice in District of Columbia.

Professional Memberships and Certifications

  • Allegheny County Bar Association
  • Pennsylvania Bar Association
  • Ohio State Bar Association


*Melanie works remotely and is licensed in Pennsylvania, practicing in Pittsburgh, PA. Contact Melanie via email or phone for in-person/virtual meetings. Use the Washington, DC office address for mail/deliveries only.

Outside the Office

Melanie is one of five siblings, all close in age and based in Pittsburgh, where family time—often centered around her niece’s and nephews’ activities—is a priority. She enjoys attending concerts, cheering on Pittsburgh sports teams, and traveling with family, primarily around the U.S., including annual trips to the New Jersey shore—beaches are her favorite destination. A trip to Greece remains a cherished highlight.