30 Park Place

Administrative Law Court of Protection, Mental Health, Vulnerable Adults & Community Care Education Employment Family & Child Care Inquests & Inquiries Personal Injury Professional Discipline

Melissa Jones is an experienced junior barrister who specialises in Family and Public law.

Known for her clear, pragmatic advice and strong advocacy, she is regularly instructed in complex and sensitive matters, often involving vulnerable individuals and emotionally charged proceedings.

Melissa is currently acting for three families in the Gleision Colliery Inquests, led by Christian Howells, and is frequently instructed by families and professional parties in Article 2 inquests. She is adept at identifying key issues early and supporting clients through both advisory and advocacy stages of the inquest process.

In family law, Melissa’s work covers the full range of public children law proceedings. She represents local authorities, parents, interveners, and children in cases involving serious allegations of neglect, emotional, physical, and sexual harm. Melissa prides herself on her ability to combine attention to detail and tenacity with a personable and thoughtful approach to ensure the best-possible outcome for her clients.

Her Court of Protection practice includes acting for local authorities, health boards, and RPRs in disputes under the Mental Capacity Act 2005. She is regularly instructed in cases where issues relate to capacity disputes, as well as decisions regarding residence, care, contact, and medical treatment. Her approach is empathetic and focused, with an emphasis on working collaboratively throughout the life of the case.

Melissa is valued for her meticulous written work, practical advice, and confident courtroom presence.

Educated at Cardiff High School, Melissa read Law at the University of Bristol and remained in Bristol to complete the Bar Professional Training Course before returning to Cardiff for pupillage. In 2022, she was awarded a Pegasus Scholarship by the Inns of Court and spent eight weeks working in the legal sector in Queensland, Australia.

2016 - 2017: University of the West of England, BPTC, Very Competent

2013 - 2016: University of Bristol, LLB (Hons) Law, 2:1