Attorney Bio
Carly Jehlen Hart is a litigation attorney in the Richmond office of Melone Hatley, P.C. She brings more than a decade of experience to her role, with a particular focus on family law, domestic relations, and child advocacy. Throughout her career, Carly has represented clients in high-stakes custody disputes, protective order hearings, divorce proceedings, and juvenile court matters. She has a deep understanding of the family court system and a steadfast commitment to helping clients navigate some of life’s most difficult moments.
Prior to joining the firm, Carly practiced at several respected law firms in Virginia, where she developed a well-rounded litigation background across multiple areas of law, including criminal defense, personal injury, and civil litigation. This has given her a broad perspective on the legal system and how different areas of law can intersect in complex family cases.
In addition to her legal practice, Carly has served as a guardian ad litem for children in Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William Counties, advocating for the best interests of minors in custody and abuse proceedings. She has also played a leadership role in shaping policy and educating the legal community. She regularly speaks at continuing legal education programs and has served on numerous bar committees, including the Fairfax General District and Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court Committees. Her efforts have been recognized with multiple honors, including the Virginia State Bar’s Civil Service Award and the Fairfax Bar Association President’s Award.
In the News
Recent Blog Posts
How to Protect Your Legal and Emotional Well-Being During a Challenging Time Valentine’s Day is especially challenging when you’re going through a divorce. Everywhere you look,…
An engagement is an exciting time for any couple. Talk about wedding venues, guest lists, and future goals – yet couples tend to avoid critical conversations…
What San Antonio Families Need to Know Family laws are state-specific, and where you live can shape how a divorce unfolds. Texas divorce law operates under…
Helpful Links
- Pet Trusts…What Happens to Fido When I’m Gone?
- Do I Have To Pay Spousal Support?
- Talking to Your Children About Divorce
- Why To Revise Your Estate Plan After Divorce
- The Importance of Advance Medical Directives
- Child Support and Imputation of Income
- Spousal Support in Virginia Guide
- Estate Planning in Second Marriages Explained
- Property Settlement and Marital Separation Agreement
- Estate Planning Myths in Virginia & How To Avoid Mistakes
- How Residency Requirements Affect Divorce in Virginia
- 5 Things You Need to Know About Separation and Divorce in VA
- Should You Make A Trust For Your Kids?
- Special Needs Children Financial Planning Through ABLE Act
- Probate: The What, When, Where, Why and How of Probate
- About Us
- Home
- How Divorce is Different for the Special Needs Child
- Third Party Custody and the Parental Presumption
- Estate Planning Documents for Adults with Special Needs
- Do I Need a Separation Agreement in Virginia?
- Contact Us
- Melone Hatley is Proud to Sponsor the 2015 Wounded Warrior Golf Classic
- What You Should Know About Child Visitation Laws in Virginia
- Blog
- What is the Value of a Special Needs Trust?
- DIY Estate Planning…Is it Worth the Time and Trouble?
- Emergency Child Custody in Virginia
- Case Study: How Does a Revocable Living Trust Work?
- How Often Should I Review My Will, Trust, and Estate Plan?


































