also known as Johnson & Taylor
Melissa grew up in Massachusetts but ventured to the Pacific Northwest to attend law school, and she has remained in Oregon ever since. She graduated summa cum laude from the University of Rhode Island where she received her bachelor’s degree in psychology. Following her undergrad, she worked for multiple years as a residential counselor for adults living with mental health issues and as a research assistant at a school for children on the Autism spectrum. She regularly volunteered with local animal rescue groups. Prior to attending law school, Melissa also worked as a veterinary technician at an emergency animal hospital and was deciding between attending veterinary school or law school. She ultimately decided to attend law school at Lewis & Clark Law School, where she served as Editor-in-Chief for the Animal Law Review.
Melissa graduated from law school in 2014, and then served as law clerk for the Honorable Thomas Rastetter at the Clackamas County Circuit Court. She continued to volunteer with a local animal rescue Animal Aid, Inc., where she also served as a Board member until she relocated to Salem. She now practices family law at Johnson & Taylor in Salem, Oregon and enjoys providing support to individuals and families going through what can be one of the most difficult times in their lives. Melissa takes a common-sense, practical, and compassionate approach to her practice.
Melissa lives in Salem with her long-time partner, Tim, and their German Shepherd Gracie and three cats, Boris, Phoebe, and Penny.
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Chat withState: Oregon
Acquired: 2015
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1193 Liberty St. SE, Salem, OR, 97302
6 Client Reviews
Showing 1 - 5 of 6 reviews
Posted by anonymous | October 06, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes
Bad attorney
I wouldn't use Melissa Young as an attorney I brought several things I wanted her to bring up in court she forgot to bring up she sat in court quietly didn't dispute several things apposed council brought up probably cost me 25,000 - 30,000 more just a horrible attorney felt I could have done better ...
Posted by Edina k | January 29, 2021 | Hired Attorney | Child Custody
Custody.
Oh I don’t even know where to start with Melissa. She is such a great attorney! She is very knowledgeable. She fought for me. She was able to get my ex to settle literally 5 mins before trial began. I got 98% of what I asked for. She, not only was my attorney but also my therapist the night before tr...
Posted by anonymous | January 04, 2021 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation
I hired this attorney to handle my divorce in 2020
My divorce was very stressful for me but this attorney seemed knowledgeable and an able advocate for my case. She was quite accessible to me either by phone or text. I felt she had my best interests in mind whether it be my mental health or my financial one.
Posted by Ronda | January 04, 2021 | Hired Attorney | Child Custody
A very sensitive and reliable person.
Melissa always responded to our questions or concerns in a timely fashion. She was very sensitive to our feelings and did what was within her power to help us with our situation. She went above and beyond to explain and guide us through the various processes that had to be taken in order for us to be...
Posted by Justin | January 04, 2021 | Family
Amazing Attorney
Melissa was fantastic to work with, she always put my best interest first and was honest with me. Sometimes things don't turn out the way we want, or even think they should go, but Melissa managed these situations very well and always was forthcoming no matter what came up. In the end, Melissa got wh...
"I endorse this lawyer. Melissa is passionate about her work and enjoys working hard for her clients."
"I endorse this lawyer. She is kind and compassionate, all while being very knowledgeable on the law and strongly advocating for her clients."
"I endorse this lawyer. Melissa works very hard for her clients, listens and is compassionate. Any person facing any type of domestic relations matter would be lucky to have her as an attorney."
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2019 - Present
Associate Attorney, Oliveros Law Group, PC.
2016 - 2019
Associate Attorney, Millard & Bragg
2015 - Present
Oregon State BarMember
2014
JD - Juris Doctor
2004
BA - Bachelor of Arts
English