Seyferth Blumenthal & Harris LLC (SBH) is pleased to announce Melesa N. Johnson has joined the firm as an associate.

Johnson’s career has in both private practice and governmental roles, and her previous work includes a focus on civil defense litigation. She will provide SBH with an additional resource in handling employment law (litigation and counseling) and products liability defense matters.

“We are excited to add an attorney with such a well-respected reputation in the local legal community,” said Kimberly A. Jones, SBH managing member. “Melesa will be a valuable asset to our clients, who rely on our firm to provide the highest levels of customer service. She will be a great addition not only to our practice but also to our culture of inclusivity and collaboration.”

Most recently, Johnson served as a law clerk for U.S. Magistrate Judge Willie J. Epps, Jr. in the Western District of Missouri. Her duties included drafting legal opinions, researching issues before the court, and daily docket management. She has also served as an Assistant Jackson County Prosecutor, where she tried numerous jury trials, earned the distinction of office Rookie of the Year, and oversaw the internship program.

In addition to her legal work, Johnson is very active in the community, serving on several boards including the Jackson County Community Backed Anti-Crime Tax (COMBAT) Commission (2016-present), Kansas City’s Municipal Liquor Control Board of Review (2016-2018), and the EITAS Developmental Disability Services of Jackson County Board (2015-2016). She also reads to elementary school students on a weekly basis through the Lead to Read initiative and has been recognized for her efforts by the Missouri Bar Association with the Tim Cochran Award for Community Service.

Johnson completed her undergraduate studies at Columbia University before earning her Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri School of Law.