Melanie Lopo Van Vliet

Melanie L. Van Vliet is an associate in the Advocacy Group at Gowling WLG’s Hamilton office.

Melanie represents a range of clients in a variety of commercial and civil litigation matters. Her litigation experience includes insurance defence (tort and accident benefits), occupiers’ liability, subrogation, commercial loan recovery, and general negligence claims. She regularly acts on behalf of insurers in the defence of claims and actions involving school boards, legal professionals, and other institutional clients. Melanie’s practice also includes files involving allegations of sexual impropriety, where she provides sensitive and strategic representation.

Prior to joining Gowling WLG, Melanie practiced at a national property and casualty insurance company, where she represented clients before various levels of court and the Licence Appeal Tribunal. This experience provided her with valuable insight into the insurance industry and a practical understanding of dispute resolution from both the insurer and client perspectives.

Melanie is driven by a results-oriented and practical approach to resolving legal disputes. Clients appreciate her compassionate communication style and collaborative approach in advocating for their specific needs. She is recognized for her thorough preparation, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving efficient, cost-effective outcomes.

Melanie actively participates in professional development initiatives to stay current with developments in her areas of practice.

Outside of her legal practice, Melanie is regularly involved in her church community and enjoys hiking and traveling whenever possible.