St. Thomas.
Photo by
Melissa Dagodag
c. 2006



  • Prior Related Experience
    Lawyer at Manatt, Phelps & Phillips (a top California law firm)
    In-house attorney for BCBG (major fashion company)
    Founder of successful home accessories company
  • Education
    UCLA School of Law (JD)
    Stanford University (BA, MA)

  • Accessibility
    Returns your calls promptly
  • Price
    Free consultation
    Better rates than the large firms
    Flat fees for many services

  • Network
    Provides clients with access to an exceptional team of business and legal professionals

  • Community Involvement
    Board Member of Rotary Club of Santa Monica
    Board Member of Meals on Wheels West
    Former Commissioner for City of Santa Monica


TESTIMONIALS:


  • "I have worked with Melissa since I started my business 3 years ago. Not only is she a pleasure to work with, but she has been very versatile with the types of legal work she has been able to take care of for me. I pay the most significant compliment by referring to friends, and I have referred many to Melissa!"
    Joseph DiSanto
    Co-Founder and President of Therapy, Inc., (post-production company -- website)

  • "... Melissa has been there for me through a variety of Hollywood legal issues.  Whether it's recording contracts or management agreements, she's more than just a skillful legal professional. She also brings a unique business perspective to the table with unbiased advice, insightful counsel and entertainment industry expertise."
    David Hernandez
    2008 American Idol® Finalist (on the web)

  • "Melissa is easy to understand and responsive.  She has a keen understanding of our business and legal needs."
    Catie Foster
    VP of Right Bank Babies®
    (children's clothing company -- website)

  • "Melissa assisted me in forming my first company one year ago. She has aided me in negotiating many contracts on my behalf. Her ability to explain legal agreements in laymen’s terms has made me feel comfortable and confident in making my decisions. Her professionalism shines in every call or email and I trust her when speaking directly to my clients."
    Brandon Kraines
    Film and Television Director -- website

  • "Melissa's personal service has been hugely beneficial as our business has grown from a plan and a logo to a brand and a product."
    Chris and Will Haughey
    Founders of Tegu®
    (green toy manufacturer -- website)


  • "Melissa has been very easy to work with and took the time to answer all my questions. She made sure all my needs were met, and I now feel comfortable moving on with my new endeavor.  It has been a pleasure to work with her!"
    Daniel Weniger
    President of Playtunes Music®
    (music licensing company -- website)

  • "Melissa brings professionalism, integrity and extensive legal knowledge to our attorney-client relationship.  I highly recommend her."
    Laura Walczuk
    Owner of Kensa Learning Center
    (tutoring company -- website)


  • "When I started my first company, Melissa helped me with all of my legal needs.  We are happy to have her on board for every project we do and partnership we form."
    Branislav Gjorcevski
    Owner and CEO of Cutting Edge Intelligence
    (web development company -- website)

  • "I came to Melissa fearing lawyers more than dentists, but in her capable hands, I am now comfortable dealing with the legal side of my music business."
    Joanna Stevens
    Singer/Songwriter -- website

  • "Melissa has been a real asset to our team and will be with us into the future. She offers far more than law experience and legal advice. Her knowledge in business manufacturing and product launches has been invaluable to us as entrepreneurs."
    Jeanne Le Blanc and Jeremy Alcock
    Inventors of Removeez®
    (natural skin cleanser -- website)

  • "Melissa understands the needs of inventors and artists like myself, who have to protect their intellectual property. She does this while explaining everything to you so you understand the process."
    Julie Austin
    Inventor of Swiggies® --
    (patented water bottles -- website)

  • "Melissa has been the most pleasant and efficient attorney I have encountered in my career. I look forward to her continued guidance and professional advice."
    John Adams
    President of Film Company

  • "I have worked with Melissa on several projects and her professionalism and quick turn around keep me coming back. Melissa has helped me create businesses and sell businesses. Not only is she very skilled at what she does, but she is also knowledgeable in all aspects of business, be it publishing, real estate, or online issues. I have recommended Melissa and her services in the past and will continue to do so in the future."
    Justin Buckles
    Author, Investor, and Small Business Owner

  • "I had never worked with an attorney before Melissa. I was lucky to find her. She assisted me with some very touchy collection issues and handled them professionally and smoothly. I will feel confident working with her again."
    Anne Geismann Alene
    Japanese Language & Tour Services

  • "Melissa was very clear and attentive to detail when she drafted a legal document for me. When I need more legal help, I will go to Melissa."
    Catherine Fitzmaurice
    Founder of Fitzmaurice Voicework®
    (voice training program -- website)