Attorney Bio
Lelan Kirk, Esq. is a seasoned litigation attorney in the Fort Worth office of Melone Hatley, P.C., bringing more than a decade of legal experience and military discipline to his role. A dedicated advocate for his clients, Lelan has built a reputation for excellence in family law litigation across Texas, with a strong track record of courtroom success. He has conducted multiple jury trials, demonstrating well-honed courtroom skills and confidence in high-stakes litigation.
Before joining Melone Hatley, Lelan served as a senior litigation attorney at a prominent national firm, where he handled a high-volume family law caseload, representing clients in complex matters involving property division, custody disputes, and enforcement actions. His exceptional advocacy earned him recognition as a Super Lawyers Rising Star in 2022, 2023, and 2024.
Lelan is dedicated to resolving disputes through mediation and collaborative law when litigation isn’t necessary. He believes in emphasizing respect, communication, and mutual agreement with the litigants and other attorneys. With a strong reputation and a belief that realistic expectations and lasting solutions are sometimes best achieved outside of the courtroom, Lelan guides clients through personalized paths to resolution whenever possible. Whether in the courtroom or at the negotiation table, Lelan believes in being a powerful ally for his clients and takes pride in providing clear, compassionate counsel and assertive representation.
Lelan is a proud U.S. Army veteran, having served as a Cavalry Scout with multiple deployments to Iraq. His leadership and commitment to service continue to shape his approach to litigation, focusing on strategic approaches that achieve the best outcome for his clients.
A graduate of Texas A&M School of Law, Lelan was a Dean’s Scholarship recipient, citation editor for the Journal of Real Property Law, and recognized with the Outstanding Mentor Award. He earned his undergraduate degree with honors from the University of Texas at Arlington, with minors in political science and criminal justice.
In the News
Recent Blog Posts
Understanding the patterns that quietly erode trust, connection, and emotional safety in a marriage Most marriages don’t end because of one dramatic event – it is…
Practical Guidance to Protect Your Finances, Your Family, and Your Future Divorce is a series of choices made during one of the most emotionally tumultuous times…
At Melone Hatley, P.C., we are Your Partner in Divorce®. As a partner, we specialize in compassionate Legal Representation Protecting Your Family, Your Finances, and Your…
Helpful Links
- Spousal Support in Virginia Guide
- 5 Things You Need to Know About Separation and Divorce in VA
- Blog
- Special Needs Children Financial Planning Through ABLE Act
- How Often Should I Review My Will, Trust, and Estate Plan?
- Property Settlement and Marital Separation Agreement
- Contact Us
- Talking to Your Children About Divorce
- DIY Estate Planning…Is it Worth the Time and Trouble?
- Estate Planning Documents for Adults with Special Needs
- Probate: The What, When, Where, Why and How of Probate
- What You Should Know About Child Visitation Laws in Virginia
- About Us
- The Importance of Advance Medical Directives
- Emergency Child Custody in Virginia
- Melone Hatley is Proud to Sponsor the 2015 Wounded Warrior Golf Classic
- Why To Revise Your Estate Plan After Divorce
- Estate Planning Myths in Virginia & How To Avoid Mistakes
- Pet Trusts…What Happens to Fido When I’m Gone?
- Estate Planning in Second Marriages Explained
- Case Study: How Does a Revocable Living Trust Work?
- How Residency Requirements Affect Divorce in Virginia
- What is the Value of a Special Needs Trust?
- Third Party Custody and the Parental Presumption
- Child Support and Imputation of Income
- Do I Need a Separation Agreement in Virginia?
- Home
- How Divorce is Different for the Special Needs Child
- Do I Have To Pay Spousal Support?
- Should You Make A Trust For Your Kids?



































