“Always Treat Others the Way You Would Like to be Treated.”

Melissa C. Lewis, M.S., R.D., J.D., is a distinguished attorney, mediator, educator, and registered dietitian whose multifaceted career spans over 17 years across legal, healthcare, educational, and nonprofit sectors. With a lifelong commitment to advocacy and public service, Melissa is known for bridging gaps—whether between legal systems and marginalized communities, or between healthcare and education. Her leadership style is defined by compassion, professionalism, and a clear dedication to justice and equity.

Melissa is the founder and owner of M C Lewis Law Office, P.C., where she has provided premier legal services since 2012. She currently serves as Of Counsel at Hargrove Firm LLP, specializing in estate planning and wealth management. Her legal expertise includes contract law, corporate law, family law, criminal defense, disability rights, mediation, and litigation. Melissa’s reputation as a seasoned negotiator and problem-solver is evidenced by her consistent ability to reduce litigation risks, achieve client goals efficiently, and advise corporate and individual clients with integrity and clarity.

She brings six years of corporate counsel experience, during which she managed legal affairs for 16 manufacturing plants across 10 states. In this role, she oversaw matters related to compliance, risk management, labor and employment law, and contracts, providing comprehensive legal guidance in high-stakes environments.

Before establishing her own practice, Melissa worked as an associate attorney with law firms in Iowa, where she managed a broad range of legal matters. Her early experiences laid the foundation for her unique approach to law—one that values relationships, continuous learning, and community impact. Her dedication to making legal systems more accessible for Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals has earned her national recognition, including speaking engagements and publications in leading legal forums.

Melissa’s educational background is equally impressive. She earned her Juris Doctor from the City University of New York School of Law, a Master of Science in Dietetics from Illinois State University, and a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics from Iowa State University. Her thesis, published in a peer-reviewed journal, demonstrates her analytical acumen and commitment to evidence-based practice. Her dual credentials in law and dietetics empower her to provide well-rounded counsel in cases that intersect health, wellness, and legal rights.

Her influence extends far beyond the courtroom. Melissa has held multiple leadership roles on boards and councils, including the Central Iowa Deaf Academy and Deaf Iowans Against Abuse. She has presented at national and state conferences, such as the 2024 National Association for the Deaf Conference and the Iowa Association for the Deaf. Her advocacy focuses on improving communication access, advancing disability rights, and fostering systemic inclusion.

Melissa is also a published author. Her 2020 memoir, Emerging Wings: Becoming Myself – A Bridge Between the Hearing and Deaf Communities, offers a powerful personal narrative that illuminates the challenges and triumphs of navigating two worlds. The book has inspired countless readers by portraying identity not as a binary, but as a journey toward self-realization and empowerment. It reflects her own emergence from a place of societal limitation to one of strength, compassion, and vision.

In addition to her legal and advocacy work, Melissa has served as an educator at Kaplan University and Heartland Community College, teaching courses in nutrition and health sciences. She is deeply committed to lifelong learning and education, both as a student and teacher. Her ability to translate complex ideas into relatable knowledge has made her a trusted mentor and thought leader in multiple fields.

Melissa’s professional journey is grounded in service—whether guiding clients through emotionally charged family law cases, representing corporations with multimillion-dollar interests, or mentoring students and emerging professionals. Her work in the Deaf community, including through legal publications and training programs for interpreters and attorneys, has significantly improved communication standards and legal outcomes for Deaf clients.

As a registered dietitian and former clinical dietitian, Melissa understands the importance of holistic well-being. Her approach integrates legal advocacy with compassion and a deep understanding of human needs. This unique combination enables her to serve clients in a way that is both strategic and nurturing—meeting both the letter of the law and the spirit of justice.

Melissa Lewis is more than a legal expert—she is a bridge-builder, a change-maker, and a lifelong advocate. With a passion for people, equity, and excellence, she continues to use her voice and skills to elevate those around her and create systems that work for everyone.

Character:
Melissa Lewis is guided by a strong moral compass rooted in empathy, fairness, and a deep commitment to justice. Her professional and personal interactions consistently reflect integrity, resilience, and a sincere desire to uplift others.

Knowledge:
With advanced degrees in both law and dietetics, Melissa brings a rare combination of legal acumen and healthcare insight to every role. Her interdisciplinary expertise allows her to approach challenges holistically and offer well-rounded, effective solutions.

Strategic:
Melissa has a proven ability to identify root issues and develop practical strategies that reduce risk, streamline operations, and achieve favorable outcomes. Whether advising corporations, representing individuals, or advocating in the nonprofit space, she delivers impactful results with precision and foresight.

Communication:
Melissa is a compelling communicator who can distill complex ideas into clear, relatable messages for diverse audiences. Her fluency in American Sign Language and experience working with Deaf and hearing communities make her a trusted voice for inclusion and accessibility.

https://www.amazon.com/Emerging-Wings-Becoming-between-Communities/dp/1645312232