Contact Me

(612) 252-2829

Melissa Nilsson

Attorney, Shareholder
Assisted By
Nina Adelson
(612) 252-2873

SERVICES

Clients Say

With more than two decades of family law experience, I provide clients with steady, thoughtful guidance during what is often one of the most overwhelming times in their lives. Known for my intellect, civility, and ability to solve complex problems, I am particularly skilled at navigating high-net-worth cases involving business and property valuation, tax analysis, nonmarital interests, and executive compensation. 

My practice spans a wide range of family law matters, including spousal maintenance, retirement benefits, child custody and support, parenting time, paternity, third-party custody and visitation, grandparent visitation, post-decree proceedings, and family law appeals. I approach each case with a focus on crafting practical, sustainable solutions that align with my clients’ long-term goals. 

Clients value my ability to foster a calm, supportive environment while providing clear, realistic guidance. I explain the legal process in understandable terms, address potential challenges, and set reasonable expectations to help clients feel informed and confident in their decisions. 

As both a lawyer and a parent, I understand the importance of preparation and staying one step ahead. My organized, forward-thinking approach ensures my clients are well-prepared and shielded from surprises. While family law litigation can be emotional and stressful, I take pride in being a consistent, unflappable advocate who provides the clarity and stability my clients need to move forward. 

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WOMEN IN LAW 2019

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EDUCATION 

  • J.D., University of North Dakota School of Law, 2000 
  • B.A., University of North Dakota, 1997 

 BAR ADMISSIONS 

  • Minnesota

CERTIFICATIONS 

  • Qualified Neutral under Rule 114 of the Minnesota General Rules of Practice 

HONORS 

  • Notable Women in Law Honoree, Twin Cities Business, 2022 
  • Attorney of the Year honoree, Minnesota Lawyer, 2021 
  • Minneapolis Family Law Lawyer of the Year, Best Lawyers in America, 2022 
  • Best Lawyers in America honoree, 2015-present 
  • Minnesota Super Lawyers honoree, 2014–present; Top 50 Women, 2017-present; Top 100, 2018, 2020-present; Rising Stars, 2008-2012 
  • Top Lawyer, Minnesota Monthly Magazine, 2022-present 

PROFESSIONAL 

  • American Bar Association 
  • Minnesota State Bar Association Member 
  • Hennepin County Bar Association, Family Law Section Co-Chair, 2014-2016 

COMMUNITY 

  • Volunteer, Hennepin County Unbundled Legal Services 
  • Volunteer, Volunteer Lawyers Network Family Law Clinic 
  • Volunteer, National Multiple Sclerosis Society 

ARTICLES 

  • Co-Author, “Property Division in High Net Worth Divorces,” Family Law Institute, 2009 
  • Co-Author, “Understanding Non-Marital Tracing,” Family Law Institute, 2007 
  • Co-Author, “Judicial Contempt Outline” with Judge James T. Swenson, Judicial College, 2003 

 PRESENTATIONS 

  • Co-Presenter, “Preserving Trust Assets in a Divorce Proceeding–Keeping the Money in the Family,” Probate & Trust Law Institute, 2015 
  • Panel Member, “New Lawyer Experience: Quick Answers to Questions That Friends, Relatives and Strangers Will Ask You at Cocktail Parties,” Minnesota State Board CLE, 2014 
  • Co-Presenter, “Family Caselaw and Legislative Update,” Family Law Institute, 2013-2015, 2017 
  • Presenter, “Basics of Custody and Parenting Time” and “A Beginner’s Guide to Property Division,” Family Law Institute, 2013-2016 
  • Co-Presenter, “Get Ready to Deviate: Calculating Gross Income of Business Owners in light of Haefele v. Haefele,” HCBA CLE, 2013 
  • Co-Presenter, “Your First Minnesota Divorce Case,” Minnesota State Board CLE, 2013 and 2014 

ARTICLES & NEWS

CLIENTS SAY