Melissa Ann Gawelek
The Law Offices of Melissa Gawelek • Akron, OH
ImmigrationPersonal Injury
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Contact
Email
Phone
(330) 785-7739
Address
789 West Market Street, Akron, OH, 44303, US
Professional
About
Melissa Ann Gawelek is a dedicated immigration and personal injury attorney based in Akron, Ohio, with a profound commitment to advocating for her clients. A graduate of Cleveland-Marshall College of Law, she earned her degree in 2013, specializing in International and Comparative Law. Throughout her academic journey, Melissa immersed herself in immigration law, engaging in numerous practical experiences that would shape her career. One of the highlights of her education was her transformative experience studying international human rights in Strasbourg, France, where she was inspired by visits to the Council of Europe and the European Court of Human Rights. Her legal acumen was further honed during an externship with Immigration and Customs Enforcement, providing her with invaluable insights into removal proceedings. As a student associate in the civil litigation clinic, she tackled complex cases, including a significant appeal for a detained asylum seeker, demonstrating her ability to navigate intricate legal challenges. Melissa has successfully assisted refugees and immigrants from diverse backgrounds in filing hundreds of applications and petitions, showcasing her expertise in immigration law. Her passion for refugee issues and the fight against human trafficking drives her volunteer efforts, which have included relief work in developing nations. With additional training in Critical Incident Stress Management and Disaster Response, she effectively supports clients who have endured trauma, domestic violence, or displacement. Licensed to practice in all fifty states by the Ohio Supreme Court, Melissa is an active member of the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association, the Akron Bar Association, the West Shore Bar Association, and the American Immigration Lawyers Association. She proudly contributes her skills to local non-profits, providing pro bono and low-bono legal assistance to those in need. Outside her practice, Melissa resides in Parma, Ohio, with her husband and two adopted pugs, cherishing opportunities for travel, music, and outdoor adventures.
About Immigration Law
Immigration attorneys help individuals and families navigate the complex immigration system. They assist with visas, green cards, citizenship, and deportation defense. Common matters include visa applications, green cards, citizenship, deportation defense.
Credentials
Education
2013 Cleveland State University - Cleveland-Marshall College of Law JD - Juris Doctor 2010 Regent University BA - Bachelor of Arts
Languages
English
Recognition & Involvement
Awards
2013 Pro Bono Service Award, Cleveland Marshall College of Law
Associations
2016 - Present Cleveland-Marshall Law Alumni Association Member 2015 - Present Akron Bar Association Member 2014 - Present West Shore Bar Association Member 2013 - Present Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association Member 2012 - Present American Immigration Lawyers Association Member
Speaking
2019 Stories From The Border Immigration Law 2017 Cleveland-Marshall Law Alumni Association Immigration 2017 What You Need To Know 2017 Akron Bar Association Current and Recent Future Immigration Issues For The Juvenile Court Practitioner 2016 American Immigration Lawyers Association (Ohio chapter) US CIS Update
Other Immigration Attorneys in Akron, OH
Updated: Aug 12, 2026