Attorney Bio
Charles D. Hatley, Esq. is the Chief Executive Officer of Melone Hatley P.C., where he combines visionary leadership with entrepreneurial drive to shape the firm’s growth, strategy, and culture. Recognized for building high-performing teams and fostering innovation, Charles is committed to creating a workplace where collaboration, professional development, and accountability drive both employee success and client satisfaction.
A strategic leader with extensive experience across multiple industries, Charles has a proven record of scaling operations, enhancing efficiency, and implementing forward-thinking strategies that deliver sustainable growth. He believes that leadership is not just about guiding a firm, it’s about inspiring people, empowering teams, and building a culture where talent thrives and ideas flourish.
Before leading Melone Hatley, Charles managed offices for a national law firm, litigating high-stakes family law cases across Virginia and Washington, D.C. Today, he merges that big-law expertise with an entrepreneurial, boutique approach, ensuring clients receive practical, strategic, and compassionate guidance while feeling supported throughout challenging legal processes. Under his leadership, the firm has evolved into a client-centered, innovative practice where people – both employees and clients – feel empowered, supported, and motivated to succeed.
Beyond his leadership role, Charles shares his expertise as the host of the firm’s own podcast, I Now Pronounce You Divorced, where he explores key topics in divorce, child custody, and co-parenting. By providing practical guidance and thoughtful analysis, Charles helps families navigate complex legal issues while fostering informed, confident decisions. Listen to Charles in action on the podcast here: I Now Pronounce You Divorced, listen on Spotify. Available on Apple Podcasts and on video podcasts and playlists on YouTube.
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If you are just beginning to think about estate planning, you’ve probably heard that trusts are some of the most effective tools you can use to…
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If you are planning your future and suddenly your nearly betrothed brings up a prenuptial agreement, it can feel…uncomfortable. One minute you’re talking about wedding plans,…
Helpful Links
- Talking to Your Children About Divorce
- Why To Revise Your Estate Plan After Divorce
- What You Should Know About Child Visitation Laws in Virginia
- Probate: The What, When, Where, Why and How of Probate
- How Residency Requirements Affect Divorce in Virginia
- How Divorce is Different for the Special Needs Child
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- Child Support and Imputation of Income
- DIY Estate Planning…Is it Worth the Time and Trouble?
- The Importance of Advance Medical Directives
- Property Settlement and Marital Separation Agreement
- Estate Planning Myths in Virginia & How To Avoid Mistakes
- Case Study: How Does a Revocable Living Trust Work?
- Pet Trusts…What Happens to Fido When I’m Gone?
- Do I Have To Pay Spousal Support?
- Should You Make A Trust For Your Kids?
- 5 Things You Need to Know About Separation and Divorce in VA
- Melone Hatley is Proud to Sponsor the 2015 Wounded Warrior Golf Classic
- Estate Planning in Second Marriages Explained
- What is the Value of a Special Needs Trust?
- Spousal Support in Virginia Guide
- Emergency Child Custody in Virginia
- Third Party Custody and the Parental Presumption
- How Often Should I Review My Will, Trust, and Estate Plan?
- Estate Planning Documents for Adults with Special Needs
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- Do I Need a Separation Agreement in Virginia?
- Special Needs Children Financial Planning Through ABLE Act
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