Melissa’s practice is focused on estate planning and probate/administration, guardianships, and conducting civil rights and workplace misconduct investigations for colleges, universities, school districts, nonprofit organizations and a variety of other employers. She is certified by the Association of Title IX Administrators (ATIXA) as a Civil Rights Investigator and is a pre-approved Sexual Misconduct Investigator for the United Educators ProResponse Expert Services Benefit. She often serves as a hearing officer for disciplinary hearings in school districts, and has chaired hearing panels for colleges in matters involving reports of civil rights violations.
In her guardianship practice, Melissa represents petitioners in proceedings brought under the Mental Hygiene Law (Article 81) and the Surrogate’s Court Procedure Act (Articles 17 and 17-A). She also serves on the Part 36 list as a Court Evaluator and attorney for persons who are alleged to be incapacitated. She has prepared and given several presentations to clients and other legal professionals regarding the complex procedures for ensuring and protecting the rights of individuals who are allegedly functionally incapacitated. Her practice also includes representation of sellers and purchasers in residential real estate transactions, which often intersects with her work in the estate administration and guardianship arenas.
Before co-founding Dizon & Shedden, P.C., Melissa defended healthcare providers and facilities in medical malpractice and negligence actions, and represented hospitals in petitions for involuntary retention, treatment over objection matters, and assisted outpatient treatment. She also assisted physicians and other healthcare providers in employment contract reviews and regulatory and compliance issues. Prior to becoming an attorney, she worked in the healthcare field in clinical and administrative capacities.
Melissa lives in Dutchess County and is proud to be a member of the small business community. When she is not working, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring the region’s food scene, engaged in Zumba or Brazilian Funk workouts, and playing pickleball.
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