About

In her practice concentrated on civil litigation, Melissa defends professional liability claims, commercial liability, premises liability and auto negligence cases, and handles nursing home litigation.  Her professional liability expertise is especially valued in legal malpractice, insurance agent claims, and nursing home negligence. Melissa advises a diverse range of clients on business/corporate law and on employment matters including representation in the defense of employment claims.  She also advises and represents clients in regard to health care law. Raised on a ranch near Alma (KS), Melissa earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Agribusiness with a minor in Economics from Kansas State University.  After graduating with Dean’s Honors from Washburn University School of Law and being admitted to practice in Kansas, she joined Gilliland & Hayes in 2005.  Melissa became a Member of the firm in 2011 and currently serves on the firm’s compensation committee.  Professionally, Melissa currently serves as a board member of the Kansas Association of Defense Counsel and is a former member of the District of Kansas Federal Bench Bar Committee.  She has also been rated BV Distinguished® by Martindale-Hubble® for the past several years and was selected in 2012 by The Hutchinson News as a Top 20 Under 40 Recipient.In addition to her professional memberships, Melissa stays civically involved –currently a board member and past president of the Cancer Council of Reno County, board member of Growth, Inc., past board member of the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce and its executive committee, past Executive Mentor for K-State's School of Business, past council member of Young Professionals of Reno County, Inc, and past board member and secretary of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Reno County, Inc. When not practicing law or serving her community, Melissa may be found spending time with her family, out running or playing a round of golf.

Practices Areas

Litigation

Employment and labor

Language

English

Contact