Contact Me

(612) 252-2829

Melissa Nilsson

Attorney, Shareholder

Caution: Sending an email or contacting us through this website does not create an attorney-client relationship with Henson Efron. Please do not share confidential or sensitive information unless you have formally retained our firm. Unsolicited communications will not be treated as confidential, nor will they create a conflict that would prevent us from representing current or former clients. By proceeding, you acknowledge and accept these terms.

SERVICES

Assisted By
Nina Adelson
(612) 252-2873

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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Best Lawyers Award Badge


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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