MELINA N. BALES is an associate in Sidley’s office in Dallas, practicing in the Commercial Litigation and Disputes group. Melina’s practice has historically focused on assisting debtors and creditors through complex Chapter 11 bankruptcy litigation. She has since transitioned her practice to focus on a broader scope of complex commercial litigation that includes representing national and international business clients through sophisticated high-stakes litigation, both in state and federal courts. Melina thoroughly enjoys advocating for her clients’ interests both in and outside the courtroom through creative and efficient solutions.
Melina earned her J.D. at Baylor University School of Law. While in law school, she clerked with U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeffery Manske for the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas. She was also an intern for American Gateways, an organization developed to help refugees fleeing war in Central America. Lastly, she participated in the Hispanic National Bar Association’s Moot Court Competition where her team placed second for Advocacy and finished first place for Best Brief.