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.
Education
- George Mason University School of Law, J.D.
- Trinity College Dublin, M.A. in Literature and Gaelic Origin
- University of South Florida, B.A. in English Literature, magna cum laude
- University of South Florida, B.A. in Interdisciplinary Social Sciences, magna cum laude
Memberships
- Virginia State Bar
- United States District Court, Eastern District of Virginia
- United States Court of Appeals, Fourth Circuit
- Virginia State Bar Council, 19th Circuit Representative
- Fairfax Bar Association, Co-Vice Chair, Criminal Law Section
- Fairfax General District Court and Juvenile & Domestic Relations Court Committees
- Virginia Women Attorneys Association
- National College of DUI Defense
- ABA Military Pro Bono Project
- Mid-Atlantic Innocence Project
- National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
- Virginia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
- Guardian ad litem for children in Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William Counties
Awards
- Virginia State Bar Civil Service Award, 2023
- Fairfax Bar Association President’s Award, 2018
- Trademark Women of Distinction Award, 2019
- Super Lawyers “Rising Star” in Criminal Defense, 2015-present