Los Angeles Attorney for Creatives, Entrepreneurs & Visionaries
I’m a California-born attorney who understands what it’s like to build something from scratch — because I’ve done it myself! Before becoming a lawyer, I ran my own successful design and manufacturing business for eight years. That experience taught me firsthand how challenging — and rewarding — it is to turn ideas into a business. It also showed me how vulnerable creative work can be when it’s not legally protected.
That’s what led me to law.
After earning my B.A. and M.A. in English from Stanford University, I went on to earn my J.D. from UCLA School of Law in 2000. From there, I trained with the prestigious Los Angeles firm Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP, then served as Vice President at Palan Music (a global music publishing company), and later as Business Affairs Counsel at the fashion house BCBG.
In 2006, I launched my own law practice to offer the kind of thoughtful, personalized legal support I wished I’d had as a business owner. Today, I provide legal services for creatives and entrepreneurs across Los Angeles and beyond—helping clients protect their intellectual property, form strong business foundations, and grow with confidence.
I’m proud to be a member of the California State Bar, Beverly Hills Bar Association, Stanford Professional Women of Los Angeles. I also serve on the Advisory Board of Directors for Meals on Wheels West and volunteer with California Lawyers for the Arts.
When I’m not practicing law, I find joy in writing poetry and music, painting, and global travel. I’m also an avid scuba diver, and you can often find me strength training and playing pickleball in my free time.
Looking for a Los Angeles attorney who understands your creative business? Melissa K. Dagodag provides trademark, contract, entertainment and business law services for entrepreneurs, artists, and innovators.
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