Professor Melendez's teaching and scholarly interests are in the area of domestic violence and the delivery of legal services to women and children. Professor Melendez joined the College of Law In 2002, as an adjunct to teach a course on domestic violence. She now directs the Children's Rights and Family Law Clinic.

Professor Melendez earned a bachelor's degree from the State University of New York at Binghamton. She earned a juris doctor from the University of Connecticut School of Law. Prior to coming to Syracuse, Professor Melendez supervised the statewide Domestic Violence Representation Project at Legal Services of New Jersey and served as a staff attorney at Essex Newark Legal Services in the area of family law. She also has worked at the Legal Aid Society in New York City representing clients in the areas of housing and public entitlements.

In addition to her litigation experience, Professor Melendez has engaged in policy work on issues affecting her clientele at various levels including state and county domestic violence working groups, local and state bar associations and judicial committees.