At Melanie Cunningham Law Office P.C., we believe the law should be a tool for growth, not a barrier.

That’s why we deliver accessible, people-first counsel that protects your work and amplifies your impact. Our mission is simple: give small businesses, nonprofits, and purpose-driven leaders the confidence to thrive.

Our belief in accessible, people-first counsel shapes everything we do - from the way we price our services to the relationships we build with every client

Our belief in accessible, people-first counsel shapes everything we do - from the way we price our services to the relationships we build with every client

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At Melanie Cunningham Law Office P.C., we do law differently.

We believe legal guidance should feel clear, accessible, and even empowering - not overwhelming.

That’s why we built our firm to serve small businesses, nonprofits, and purpose-driven organizations with the same level of care and strategic insight usually reserved for large corporations.

We take a fresh approach to legal counsel. We partner with you as advisors and collaborators, taking time to understand your goals, your vision, and your challenges. Whether you’re protecting your brand, negotiating contracts, or laying the legal foundation for growth, our role is to help you move forward with confidence and peace of mind.

Our commitment runs deeper than just paperwork. We provide proactive counsel, flat-fee pricing, and practical solutions designed to support you today and protect your tomorrow.

For us, it’s not just about avoiding risk - it’s about creating opportunity, strengthening community, and preserving what matters most to you. Because at the heart of every contract, trademark, or compliance program is something far bigger: your growth, your purpose, and your legacy. And we’re here to help you protect it all.

Our Core Values: These five principles guide every conversation, every strategy, and every solution we deliver.

COMPETENT –
You deserve excellence. We bring deep knowledge, sharp skills, and up-to-date expertise so you can trust that your legal matters are handled with precision.

ACCESSIBLE –
Law doesn’t need to be complicated. We make it clear, approachable, and easy to understand - so you always feel informed and empowered.

KIND –
Legal guidance is about people, not just problems. We lead with compassion and respect, ensuring your experience is supportive from start to finish.

COLLABORATIVE –
The best results happen when we work together. We listen closely, involve you in decisions, and build solutions that fit your unique goals.

PRACTICAL –
We focus on real-world answers, not legal jargon. Our advice is grounded, actionable, and designed to make your life - and your work - easier.

About the Founder

I’m Melanie Cunningham, founder of Melanie Cunningham Law Office P.C. and a steadfast believer that small businesses and nonprofits are the heartbeat of our communities. My work is rooted in helping mission-driven organizations build strong foundations and protect what they’ve worked so hard to create.

Before launching my own firm, I spent more than a decade working for global financial institutions as a senior compliance officer. That experience taught me how to spot risks early, simplify complex regulations, and create systems that actually work in practice. Today, I bring that same expertise — paired with a deep commitment to accessibility and kindness - to every client relationship.

I’ve had the privilege of advising small businesses and professionals across a wide range of industries - from educators, consultants, and wellness practitioners to government contractors, event planners, and financial service providers. Whether I’m helping a founder secure their first trademark, drafting a contract that protects future growth, or teaching a workshop that demystifies the legal side of business, my goal is always the same: to give you confidence and clarity so you can keep building what matters.

Meet Melanie

Along the way, I’ve co-authored Striking Business Gold: Real Strategies, Practical Advice & Inspiration for the Aspiring Entrepreneur and shared my knowledge with communities that too often go underserved by traditional legal models.

I received my bachelor’s degree from the Robert H. Smith School of Business at the University of Maryland at College Park (Go Terps!), and my J.D. from Emory University School of Law. I’m licensed to practice law in New York and New Jersey.

More than the titles or degrees, what defines my practice is the way I strive to show up for my clients:

  • Competent in my craft
  • Accessible in my approach
  • Kind in my counsel
  • Collaborative in spirit
  • Practical in every solution I deliver

This is the spirit I aim to bring to my work - a commitment to showing up with clarity, care, and practical guidance, every time.

Ready to work together?

Let’s talk about which approach is the right fit for your business or nonprofit.

Schedule a Consultation