Melissa L. Wheaton, Esq., LL.M.

Who Am I?

I am the Founder of TEPS LAW, LLC where I focus on creating estate plans that will keep your family out of court. I also advise entrepreneurs in business law matters.  I am licensed and admitted to practice law as a member of the Florida Bar.  I am also admitted to practice before the United States Tax Court. Prior to starting TEPS LAW, I worked for a Fortune 260 company for over 13 years representing the company in collective bargaining disputes. I served as a Director of Labor Relations and Arbitration and led a team of highly skilled managers in resolving contractual disputes, negotiating agreements, and providing training deliverables to internal stakeholders. Prior to my time in Corporate America, I practiced administrative law, worked in private practice, and served as a prosecutor in the Fourth Judicial Circuit.  I am also a mother, a daughter, a sister, and a friend who understands people hire attorneys to help problems go away.  Outside of running my law practice, I enjoy hiking, weight training, reading, internet shopping, baking delicious desserts, and all things beauty related.

 

 

Education

  • Boston University School of Law, LL.M. in Taxation (Estate Planning Concentration)
  • Troy University, M.S. in Management
  • University of Florida Levin College of Law, J.D. with Honors
  • University of Florida, B.A.

Bar & Court Admissions

  • Florida
  • U.S. Tax Court
  • U.S. District Court, Southern District of Florida

Professional Associations

  • Member of the Florida Bar Tax Law Section
  • Member of the  Florida Bar Real Property, Probate & Trust Law Section
  • Member of the Broward County Bar Association: Wills, Trusts & Estates Section

Where Am I From?

I’m a 5th generation Florida native originally from Jacksonville. I love this great state and couldn’t imagine living anywhere else.  I’m a proud alumnus of the University of Florida where I received both my Bachelor of Arts and Juris Doctor with Honors.  I furthered my education by later earning a Master of Science in Management from Troy University, and a Master of Laws in Taxation from Boston University School of Law.

Why Hire TEPS LAW?

My unique background which combines legal experience, people leadership, corporate management, professionalism, and executing strategic initiatives to achieve results driven objectives are a combination difficult to find in the legal profession.  My main objective is to provide a center of excellence for my clients. I aim to make all clients feel at ease and comfortable when discussing sensitive financial and personal matters.  

At TEPS LAW, my mission is to ensure your hard earned assets pass to your family and loved ones, and not spent on attorney fees and court costs.