Melinda Douglas founded the Office of the Public Defender for the City of Alexandria in 1987, where she has represented indigent clients ever since.  She supervises a team of nine attorneys, two investigators, one sentencing specialist, and five support staff.  She is a frequent speaker, guest lecturer, and training instructor in the fields of criminal defense and professionalism.  Additionally, she is extensively involved in criminal justice policy initiatives, and public service projects.  She is a member of various professional organizations and boards. Her educational background includes a B.A. from Emmanuel College and a J.D. from the Antioch School of Law.

Ms. Douglas is the 2012 recipient of the Harry L. Carricio Professionalism award, presented by the Virginia State Bar Criminal Law Section.