Melissa Freeling is an associate in the Business Trial Practice Group in the firm's San Diego office. As a key member of the firm's Construction and Multifamily Housing Teams, Melissa brings her expertise to a broad range of legal matters.
Melissa is an experienced trial attorney who primarily represents owners, developers, and investors in a variety of business disputes, with a special emphasis on construction litigation and multi-family matters. At Sheppard, she routinely counsels landlords and property management companies on compliance matters. Melissa's litigation expertise extends to a wide range of construction-related claims, including construction defect, delay, cost overrun, mechanic's lien, and quiet title.
Melissa works collaboratively with clients, consultants, expert witnesses, and opposing parties to resolve disputes economically and efficiently. When early resolution is not feasible, Melissa stands as a fierce advocate for her clients, litigating rigorously on their behalf. She has successfully represented clients in both state and federal court.
Melissa's dedication to her clients and her profession has been recognized by several prestigious awards. She is the recipient of Sheppard's 2022 Bob Gerber Pro Bono Award, in recognition of her significant pro bono work in response to the crises in Afghanistan and Ukraine. She has also been acknowledged by the San Diego Volunteer Lawyers Program (SDVLP), a prominent local legal aid organization, for her commitment to SDVLP's guardianship program.