About Melyssa
Melyssa Avola is a criminal defense attorney based in Pasadena, California. She has been practicing law for over 19 years, specializing in areas such as criminal appeals, drug crimes, expungement, fraud, gun crimes, internet crimes, sex crimes, theft, and violent crimes. She is admitted to practice in California, New York, and the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals. Ms. Avola earned her Juris Doctor from Southwestern Law School in 2005. Prior to that, she obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Art History and Political Science from the University of California, Los Angeles, in 2001. During her time at Southwestern Law School, she worked by clerking for the Los Angeles County Public Defender's Office, where she assisted in defending clients against various criminal charges.
After passing the California Bar Exam in 2005, Ms. Avola began her legal career as an associate attorney at a boutique criminal defense firm in Los Angeles. In 2007, she expanded her practice by becoming admitted to the New York State Bar — This lets the attorney represent clients in both states. She has handled many cases, from minor offenses to serious felonies, and has a reputation for her thorough preparation and dedication to her clients. In 2010, Ms. Avola joined the Orange County District Attorney's Office as a Deputy District Attorney. In this role, she prosecuted numerous criminal cases, including complex fraud schemes and violent crimes.
Her work contributed to the successful conviction of several high-profile defendants. In 2015, she returned to private practice, focusing exclusively on criminal defense. Ms. Avola is a member of the California State Bar, holding license number 239892, and is in good standing. She is also admitted to practice before the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. Her office is located at 107 S.
Fair Oaks Ave., Suite 211, Pasadena, CA 91105. She can be reached by phone at (626) 844-7441 or via email at melyssa.avola@ocdapa.org. Throughout her career, Ms. Avola has been committed to providing effective legal representation to her clients. She stays current with developments in criminal law through continuing legal education and is an active member of the California Public Defenders Association. Her dedication to justice and her clients has earned her a reputation as a skilled and compassionate attorney.
