Women To Watch: Melissa Roca Shaw

Assistant County Attorney for the Miami-Dade County Attorney’s Office 

Practice area

Federal Litigation - I represent Miami-Dade County in federal civil rights litigation.

What drew you to this practice area?   

As a former federal and state prosecutor, and with appellate experience from my time as an Assistant Attorney General, I was naturally drawn to litigation. I love the combination of advocacy, strategy, writing, and the opportunity to go to trial. What has kept me passionate about this work, though, is the substance behind the cases, which involve complex constitutional questions with real consequences for people and communities; it makes the work both challenging and meaningful.

A case, matter, or project you're especially proud of.  

I’m most proud of continuing my career in public service. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of serving this community in different capacities—from prosecution, to appellate work, to my current role. Each chapter has challenged me in a different way and taught me something new about advocacy, judgment, and leadership. I’m proud of the individual accomplishments along the way, but even more proud of the opportunity to use my legal training in service of something larger than myself.

Who has been a mentor or role model in your career, and what did you learn from them?  

I’ve been fortunate to have the guidance of some remarkable lawyers and judges throughout my career. Many have become trusted colleagues, sounding boards, and close friends, and I am grateful to learn from them everyday.

The lesson that has stayed with me most is about the importance of preparation and planning—they are the foundation for doing our best work. But excellence in our work is only one part of a meaningful life. We are better lawyers when we are fulfilled people, and a great lawyer understands how to pursue the work with purpose while making room for the people and experiences that bring meaning and joy.

What does being part of this community of women lawyers mean to you?  

This community gives me strength, perspective, and wisdom. Many women I’ve met through MDFAWL have opened doors for me, encouraged me, challenged me, and shared their honest experiences so that I could more easily navigate my legal path. I take every opportunity to pay that forward—to support other women, celebrate their successes, and help create opportunities for those coming behind us. It is so important to surround ourselves with people who will advocate for and champion us in rooms we are not in.

What's the best part of being involved in the legal community here in Florida?  

The communal ritual: 3:05 pm Cuban Colada. Totally normal in every Miami office.

What's something people are surprised to learn about you?   

Before law school, I worked at a talent agency in Beverly Hills, but on weekends I traded heels for a wetsuit and lived my best surfer-girl life on Venice Beach.

A quote or motto you live by.  

Always have something on the calendar to look forward to!