Melina Valladares

Melina Valladares is an associate in the Albuquerque, New Mexico, office of Jackson Lewis P.C. where she represents employers in a wide range of workplace law matters. Her practice includes defending claims involving harassment, discrimination, retaliation, wrongful termination, wage and hour compliance, and leave‑related issues.

Melina’s experience includes matters arising under Title VII and Title IX of the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), and the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). She regularly assists employers in navigating administrative investigations and proceedings, including representing clients before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the New Mexico Human Rights Bureau (HRB), and advises on compliance and risk‑mitigation strategies.

Before joining Jackson Lewis as an associate, Melina served as a law clerk with the firm, where she gained early exposure to complex employment disputes and developed a strong foundation in management‑side employment law. That experience informs her practical, business‑focused approach to litigation and counseling.

During law school, Melina participated in the Economic Justice Clinic, representing employees in workplace law matters. This experience provides valuable insight into opposing perspectives and enhances her ability to anticipate claims, assess risk, and develop effective defense strategies for employer clients.

Melina serves on the Board of Directors of the New Mexico Hispanic Bar Association. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her cat, Klaus, volunteering with animal rescue organizations, and reading.