Melanie Dykas

Adjunct Professor (DPP) and Deputy General Counsel at the Connecticut General Assembly

School of Public Policy

Education

B.A., University of Connecticut
Juris Doctor, The University of Connecticut School of Law

Professional Experience

Melanie Dykas currently serves as Deputy General Counsel at the Connecticut General Assembly. She  previously served as an Executive Assistant in Connecticut’s Division of Criminal Justice.  Her main role was to establish and maintain relationships with legislators and staff to promote the public policy goals related to the Division; translate ideas into clear, actionable legislative proposals; advocate and negotiate on pending legislation; identify and advise on affected interests; and track and research new laws and potential impact.

Prior to joining the Division, Melanie spent a decade as an attorney with several large law firms representing clients at the state, federal, appellate, and arbitration level.  Her practice focused on business litigation, wherein she was consistently recognized as a “Rising Star” by Super Lawyers® and as “One to Watch” by Best Lawyers in America®.  Early in her career, Melanie split her time as an attorney and a lobbyist, having lobbied during the 2011-2014 legislative sessions.