About Jill Melissa
Jill Melissa Gerdrum is a civil litigation attorney at Hall & Evans, LLC, located in Missoula, Montana. She joined the firm in January 2022, taking on the responsibility of leading their new Missoula office. With a strong foundation in the legal field, Ms. Gerdrum was admitted to the Montana State Bar in 2006. Over the past 20 years, she has developed a robust practice focused on civil litigation, specifically in areas such as personal injury defense, transportation, products liability, and insurance defense. Before her tenure at Hall & Evans, Ms. Gerdrum served as a Managing Partner at Axilon Law in Missoula.
During her time there, she represented a diverse array of clients, including national businesses, public entities, and local companies. Her experience spans both Montana's state and federal courts, as well as various administrative agencies. Notably, her product liability expertise covers many claims, including those related to farm equipment, RV component parts, engine components, loading dock equipment, lawn mowers, medical supplies, livestock feed, and underground fuel tanks. Recognition for Ms. Gerdrum’s work has been significant. She has been named in the Mountain States Super Lawyers® Top 50 Women list and the Top 100 Lawyers list for 2025. Additionally, her contributions in products liability defense and commercial litigation earned her accolades from Best Lawyers, highlighting her commitment to excellence in her field.
Such honors reflect her dedication and skill in navigating complex legal issues. Beyond her legal practice, Ms. Gerdrum is actively involved in various community and professional organizations. Since 2020, she has volunteered for the Montana Legal Services Association, providing essential legal assistance to those in need. From 2008 to 2011, she served as a member and Vice-Chair of the Board of Directors for Missoula Childcare Resources, demonstrating her commitment to community welfare. Earlier in her career, she was a member of the Board of Directors for the Myrna Loy Center in Helena from 2001 to 2003, further illustrating her dedication to the arts and culture in Montana. Outside of her professional commitments, Ms.
Gerdrum enjoys an active lifestyle — She finds joy in running and backpacking, often spending quality time with her family. Her roots run deep in Montana, as she remains involved in her family's cattle ranch in Grass Range. Admitted to practice in Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming, she also holds credentials in the U.S. District Courts for the Districts of Colorado, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming. Furthermore, she is admitted to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, the Federal Circuit, and the U.S. Supreme Court, showcasing her extensive qualifications and commitment to her legal career.