Melanie V. Pate
Phoenix,AZ
Summary
Highly experienced labor and employment attorney with a proven track record in communicating effectively with clients and reducing litigation risks. Expert in labor and employment law, with accolades from Chambers USA, Benchmark, and The Best Lawyers in America. Skilled at resolving complex disputes and negotiating settlements.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
Work History
Deputy General Counsel
The Powers Group
08.2022 - Current
- Streamlined internal processes by developing standardized legal templates for policies, contracts and agreements.
- Reduced litigation risks by proactively addressing potential legal issues and providing strategic advice to senior management.
- Developed comprehensive training programs for employees on relevant legal topics, fostering a culture of compliance within the organization.
- Oversaw outside counsel relationships, effectively managing costs while maintaining high-quality legal representation.
Partner
Lewis Roca LLP
10.2011 - 08.2022
- Specialized in all areas of labor and employment law, including litigation and arbitration.
- Achieved successful client outcomes by identifying and addressing their unique needs and goals.
- Supervised and mentored associate attorneys and junior partners.
Chief Counsel, Arizona Civil Rights Division
Arizona Attorney General's Office
08.2007 - 10.2011
- Oversaw the day-to-day operations of the Arizona Civil Rights Division, which investigates and litigates civil rights complaints in employment, housing, and public accommodations.
- Facilitated a worksharing agreement between the Division and the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
Section Chief, Arizona Civil Rights Division
Arizona Attorney General's Office
05.2005 - 08.2007
- Supervised and led the Compliance Section of the Arizona Civil Rights Division, which investigates civil rights complaints in employment, housing, and public accommodations.
Assistant Attorney General, Employment Law Section
Arizona Attorney General's Office
08.1996 - 05.2005
- Represented executive state agencies in administrative actions and litigation in state and federal court.
- Provided advice regarding labor and employment matters and assisted executive state agencies with risk management and litigation prevention.
Education
Bachelor of Science -
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZJ.D. -
University of Arizona, Rogers College of Law
Tucson, AZAccomplishments
- The Best Lawyers in America, Litigation - Labor & Employment
- Chambers USA, Labor & Employment
- Benchmark Litigation, Labor & Employment Star - West
- Arizona Bar Foundation, Top 50 Pro Bono Attorneys Award
- Arizona Business Magazine, Most Influential Women in Arizona Award
- Arizona Trial Lawyers Association College of Trial Advocacy, Graduate
- Arizona Attorney General's Office, Emerging Star Award, Civil Division
Timeline
Deputy General Counsel
The Powers Group
08.2022 - Current
Partner
Lewis Roca LLP
10.2011 - 08.2022
Chief Counsel, Arizona Civil Rights Division
Arizona Attorney General's Office
08.2007 - 10.2011
Section Chief, Arizona Civil Rights Division
Arizona Attorney General's Office
05.2005 - 08.2007
Assistant Attorney General, Employment Law Section
Arizona Attorney General's Office
08.1996 - 05.2005
Bachelor of Science -
University of Arizona
J.D. -
University of Arizona, Rogers College of Law