Melissa L Young

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.