Areas of Focus
Melissa Tootle joined the MacArthur Justice Center’s New Orleans office as a Litigation Paralegal in July 2023. As a member of the trial team, she focuses on criminal justice litigation with a particular emphasis on racial justice, law enforcement brutality, wrongful arrests, and holding police accountable.
Recently, Melissa assisted in our litigation efforts against the Baton Rouge Police Department, addressing the abuse and false arrests of several peaceful protesters in 2017 who were exercising their right to protest against police violence following the murder of Alton Sterling by the BRPD.
Before joining the MacArthur Justice Center, Melissa honed her legal expertise as a paralegal at a plaintiff-side medical malpractice firm dedicated to protecting the rights of the elderly and vulnerable individuals harmed by negligence. Additionally, she gained valuable experience as a legal assistant at a large personal injury firm in Jackson, Mississippi.
Melissa graduated magna cum laude from Tulane University in 2017 with a bachelor’s degree in Legal Studies/Pre-Law. While at Tulane, she volunteered at the All Souls Community Center in New Orleans’ Lower Ninth Ward, dedicating several years to support children in need. Through her volunteer work, Melissa provided guidance and care to help these children envision new paths in life, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and avoid the pitfalls of the legal system.
Deeply passionate about addressing abuses within the criminal justice system, Melissa is dedicated to advocating for those affected by injustice. Her unwavering commitment to eradicating racial discrimination in the criminal justice system fuels her drive to help create a fairer and more equitable society for all.