Melissa Zillhardt is a family law attorney at Petrelli Previtera, LLC, where she focuses on representing clients in divorce, custody, and support cases, as well as modification matters.
With a background in public service and a range of legal experiences, Melissa brings a unique perspective to her family law practice, offering compassionate, client-centered guidance.
Before joining Petrelli Previtera, Melissa worked extensively in child welfare and elder law. She served as an attorney for Lancaster County and Philadelphia County, where she handled cases involving child abuse, elder abuse, and dependency law. This experience has given her valuable courtroom experience and a deep understanding of how courts evaluate child custody and welfare cases. Clients will find that she can quickly assess the facts in a case and guide her clients through the often complex and emotionally charged process of divorce and custody matters.
Clients working with Melissa Zillhardt can expect a thorough, and results-driven approach to their legal matters. She believes in providing clear guidance throughout every stage of the case, ensuring her clients feel fully informed and supported. “I want my clients to feel confident and prepared, whether we’re negotiating a settlement or going to trial,” Melissa explains. Her approach emphasizes open communication and detailed preparation, giving clients the tools they need to navigate the complexities of divorce and custody disputes. Melissa ensures that her clients understand the legal process, what they can expect, and how to plan for their future with clarity and confidence. By focusing on both the emotional and practical aspects of each case, she helps her clients move forward with a sense of control and peace of mind.
One of her key strengths is her ability to keep clients grounded and focused on what truly matters in their cases. “I help my clients avoid getting caught up in the small, emotionally charged issues and guide them toward making decisions that will help them move forward,” she says. This focus on the big picture allows her clients to approach their cases with clarity and confidence.
A native of Lebanon, Pennsylvania, Melissa earned her Juris Doctorate from Villanova University School of Law and her B.A. from Albright College. During law school, she interned with Philadelphia Legal Assistance and the Villanova Health Law Clinic, where she assisted low-income clients in matters related to disability, medical assistance, power of attorney, and guardianship.
Outside of the office, Melissa resides in West Philadelphia with her partner and their dog, Teak. She enjoys playing tennis on the weekends and spending time exploring the city. With roots in a small town in Pennsylvania, she brings a down-to-earth and approachable style to her practice, always prioritizing her clients’ well-being.
Melissa is a member of the Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, and Lancaster Bar Associations, and is admitted to practice law in Pennsylvania.
Education
Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law, Doctor of Law
Albright College, B.A. in Environmental Studies and Political Science