Attorney Melissa B. Nicholson
After growing up in Sioux Falls, I went to college in Indiana at DePauw University, where I majored in Math and played college basketball. I returned to South Dakota to go to law school at the University of South Dakota, primarily with the intent to practice with my father, who has been a mentor to me, both in the practice of law and life in general. I’ve practiced in Sioux Falls in excess of 13 years and am a partner in the firm of Nicholson Law. My father, Tom Nicholson, has practiced in the State over 30 years and is the South Dakota State Bar President, 2012-2013. Together we handle a variety of litigation and business related legal work. We strive to offer an effective resolution of our clients’ cases in a straightforward, personal way with an emphasis on common sense.
I value good working relationships with other attorneys and judges, and practice primarily in the following areas:
- Divorce/Family Law
- Prenuptial Agreements
- Knowledge of/emphasis on business, family law and litigation related issues
- Civil Litigation
When looking for an attorney it is important to find one who fits both your needs and personality; one who makes you feel comfortable that your matter is being taken care of in the most effective and appropriate way. What sets our approach apart from others is our goal to make sure our client’s situation is approached with common sense, while being a strong advocate for you on matters of importance. Client decisions make a big difference in the outcome, length, and expense of a situation. Our main concern is that you feel you are given all of your options, with advice from us, and then able to make an informed decision on how best to proceed. We will advise you, but you are ultimately in control of how your case is resolved. We handle our client’s situation with logical, effective attention to detail. We strive to keep the big picture in mind and advocate for a resolution that best fits the particular facts of your case in a personal and comfortable manner.
Professional and Community Memberships and Associations:
- South Dakota Bar Association
- South Dakota Trial Lawyers
- Past South Dakota Trial Lawyers Association Board of Governors
- Family Law Committee, South Dakota Trial Lawyers Association
- Bar Media Liason, State Bar Committee Chairperson
- Evidence Committee, State Bar
- Leadership Sioux Falls Graduate 2002
- South Dakota Senator Daschle's Leader's Retreat 2000
Courts Admitted to Practice In:
- All South Dakota Courts
- United States Supreme Court
- United States Court of Appeals for the 8th Circuit
- Unitied States District Court
- Most South Dakota Agencies