Melissa Cleary dedicates her practice exclusively to North Carolina workers’ compensation, bringing focused experience to every case she handles. A Board Certified Specialist in Workers’ Compensation Law, she holds the distinction of being the first female defense attorney in North Carolina inducted into the College of Workers’ Compensation Lawyers. In addition to extensive experience before the North Carolina Industrial Commission, Melissa has argued cases before the North Carolina Court of Appeals, the North Carolina Supreme Court and the EEOC.

Melissa has developed a nuanced understanding of the workers’ compensation system and the knowledge that no two clients—or cases—are alike. She tailors her approach to each client’s specific priorities and circumstances and draws genuine satisfaction from helping clients navigate a system that can feel overwhelming. She is also drawn to the human side of her work: learning about her clients’ industries and is in awe of the dedication they bring to what they do.

Outside the office, Melissa spends time with her husband and their rescue animals, Josie and Jewel.  She can frequently be found in Wilmington visiting her daughter or back “home” in Michigan to see her family.