Melissa Fried Spence

Employment Law - Management

3.0 (1 reviews)

Charleston, South Carolina

16+ years experience

Butler Snow LLP

Updated: Jan 02, 2026

Contact Information

843-277-3700

https://www.butlersnow.com/professionals/melissa-spence

25 Calhoun Street, Suite 250, Charleston, SC 29401

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Bio

Melissa is a member of Butler Snow’s Labor and Employment group, with experience in a wide range of industries. Melissa regularly counsels clients on compliance issues and represents employers before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the South Carolina Human Affairs Commission, and in both state and federal court against lawsuits arising under Title VII, ADA, ADEA, FMLA, and the FLSA. Melissa is a member of Butler Snow’s Labor and Employment group, with experience in a wide range of industries. Melissa regularly counsels clients on compliance issues and represents employers before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the South Carolina Human Affairs Commission, and in both state and federal court against lawsuits arising under Title VII, ADA, ADEA, FMLA, and the FLSA. Melissa is a member of Butler Snow’s Labor and Employment group, with experience in a wide range of industries. Melissa regularly counsels clients on compliance issues and represents employers before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the South Carolina Human Affairs Commission, and in both state and federal court against lawsuits arising under Title VII, ADA, ADEA, FMLA, and the FLSA.

Local Legal Snapshot

Jurisdiction

South Carolina

State Capital

Columbia

Highest Court

South Carolina Supreme Court

Bar Association

South Carolina Bar

Typical Consultation

$200-$450

Typical Hourly Range

$300-$650/hr

Fee Model Notes

Business and employment matters often involve hourly billing with optional project-based retainers.

Estimates vary by market, complexity, urgency, and attorney experience.

Practice Areas

Employment Law - Management

Awards & Recognition

Recognized: Employment Law - Management
Recognized: Litigation - Labor and Employment
Recognized: Labor and Employment Law - Management - 2023
Recognized: Litigation - Labor and Employment - 2023
Recognized: Labor and Employment Law - Management - 2022
Recognized: Labor and Employment Law - Management - 2021

Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2024

Education

Charleston School of Law, J.D., graduated 2009

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Reviews

Robert Carter

3 months ago

Competent and knowledgeable, but communication could improve

I engaged Melissa Spence at Butler Snow for a sensitive employment matter involving a former executive's separation agreement and potential non-compete issues. Her deep knowledge of South Carolina employment law was evident, and her recognition in the field is well-deserved. She provided solid, practical counsel that helped us navigate the complexities of the situation. However, the experience was not without its frustrations. While the final work product was thorough, there were several instances where responses to time-sensitive emails took longer than expected, which added stress during negotiations. At times, I felt I had to follow up to get updates on the file's progress. For straightforward compliance advice or litigation, her 16 years of experience across various industries is a clear asset. For clients who need frequent, proactive communication, setting very clear expectations at the outset would be advisable. She is undoubtedly a capable attorney who knows her practice area inside and out.