Melinda M. Previtera

Melinda M. Previtera is a Philadelphia divorce and family law attorney who represents individuals in complex and sensitive domestic matters. Her practice includes divorce, child custody, child support, legal separation, and domestic violence cases. She builds strong client relationships and uses litigation, negotiation, and advocacy to help families address difficult transitions. She is admitted to practice in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

Melinda earned a Juris Doctor from Rutgers School of Law, where she received a certification in mediation, researched child advocacy rights, and completed a domestic violence clinic. She graduated cum laude from Dickinson College with dual bachelor’s degrees in Political Science and Women’s Studies. This training supports her ability to analyze family law disputes, understand the needs of children and families, and pursue resolutions through negotiation or litigation.

Before entering private practice, Melinda served as a judicial law clerk for the Honorable James P. Savio in the family division. That role provided firsthand experience with family court procedure and judicial decision-making. She later worked as an associate and advanced to partner in 2017. She also mentors associate attorneys, drawing on her experience to strengthen case preparation, negotiation strategy, and effective advocacy in family law matters.

Melinda M. Previtera was selected for inclusion in Pennsylvania Super Lawyers Rising Stars from 2016 through 2023 and New Jersey Super Lawyers Rising Stars from 2018 through 2023. She has also received an Institute of Family Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 distinction and was named a Woman of Outstanding Leadership by the International Women’s Leadership Association. Her professional involvement includes the Justinian Society of Lawyers, the Nicholas Cipriani American Inn of Court, and state and local bar associations.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Petrelli Previtera, LLC
• Member, Pennsylvania Bar Association
• Member, Philadelphia Bar Association
• Member, New Jersey Bar Association
• Member, American Bar Association

Licensed State

• Pennsylvania
• New Jersey

Education

• Rutgers School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Dickinson College
  Bachelor of Science (BS)