Melanie was born and raised in Sarnia. After graduating from SCITS, she moved to Waterloo where she obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Kinesiology (Hons.) from Wilfrid Laurier University in 2003. While at Laurier, Melanie was a member of the Laurier Goldenhawks varsity women’s soccer team. She then moved to Kingston where she earned her Bachelor of Laws from Queen’s University in 2006. While at Queen’s, Melanie spent a summer at the Herstmonceux Castle in England where she earned a Certificate in International Law. She also completed a semester abroad at the University of Sydney in Sydney, Australia.

Melanie was called to the Ontario Bar in 2007. After practicing in Toronto for ten years, she decided to move home to Sarnia to raise her family. After practicing on her own for several years, Melanie joined George Murray Shipley Bell, LLP in January, 2021. Melanie’s practice is focused on Real Estate, Wills & Estates and Corporate Commercial.

In her spare time, Melanie is busy with her young family and when she can, she enjoys, traveling, hiking and skiing.