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Meet the Team Behind Volkara Law
Melany Vargas, CEO and Primary Attorney
Welcome, my name is Melany and I’d like to tell you a little about myself: I am a proud Colombian, raised in Texas-raised and now rooted in Miami—a journey that reflects the diverse and resilient spirit I bring to my legal practice. My path to becoming an attorney was shaped by early lessons in discipline and perseverance, as an only-child of determined parents and as a lifelong athlete, further forged by a deep commitment to justice, empathy, and human dignity.
I hold a B.S. in Criminology from the University of Texas at Dallas in 2018, and earned my Master’s degree in Human Rights, Social Justice, and Global Policy from Southern Methodist University (“SMU”), graduating summa cum laude in 2019. In 2020, I obtained a Certificate in Conflict Resolution and Dispute Management from SMU in 2020. Next, I earned my Juris Doctor from Florida International University in 2024 and passed the Florida Bar in September 2024.
I began my professional career at various non-profit organizations in Dallas, which taught me how to be a dedicated advocate for survivors of sex trafficking and sexual violence. I’ve walked alongside individuals facing unimaginable hardship and I found my passion in helping them reclaim their power, rebuild their lives, and find hope on the other side of trauma. My work is not just about legal outcomes; it’s about human transformation and resilience.
My Immigration Connection
As a child immigrant, growing up in a household witnessing my parents create a new life for themselves in a strange country, I personally experienced many of the stages of the migratory journey. The struggles have been many but now I carry with me a profound understanding of those struggles—and strength—embedded in displacement, transition, and starting over. This lived experience deeply informs my commitment to immigration law, where I fight to ensure that those navigating complex systems are met with dignity, advocacy, and a voice that won’t back down. It fuels my passion for standing beside individuals and families whose stories deserve to be heard, respected, and protected.
My Real Estate Experience
I also bring deep roots in the real estate world, having grown up immersed in the industry due to my parents' involvement. From a young age, I witnessed the power of strategic investment and property ownership in creating stability and opportunity for families, of all income levels. This experience instilled in me a strong belief in building generational wealth through real estate and protecting that foundation through estate planning. These areas of law are more than practice areas for me—they are part of a legacy I believe everyone deserves the opportunity to create and safeguard.
My Philosophy
At the heart of my philosophy is the Japanese art of Kintsukuroi—the practice of repairing broken pottery with gold, embracing flaws as part of an object’s story rather than something to hide. I believe the same of people: that our scars can become the source of our beauty, strength, and purpose.
I created Volkara Law to bring light, fierce advocacy, and compassionate counsel to every person I represent—because no one’s worth is defined by where they’ve been, but by who they choose to become. Your journey matters, and you don’t have to face it alone. My team and I are here to walk with you and help you build what’s next, whether you're building a future, protecting your legacy, or seeking justice. So come visit our offices, where we always want you to feel at home. I look forward to getting to know you better soon.
Elizabeth Crysler, Office Manager
Hello, my name is Elizabeth and I am extremely proud to be a part of Volkara Law.
I was born in Germany and then was raised in Texas. I am a mother, wife, sister, and daughter; roles that carry immense importance to me. We each carry with us multiple responsibilities that define who we are and I have a passion for understanding people’s various situations. Humanity is a woven tapestry of numerous experiences that ought to be celebrated, mourned, and supported. This community-forward perspective is what drives my love of helping others and has been the foundation of my education.
In 2018, I received my B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Human Resources and two foundations in Criminology and Behavioral and Brain Science. I graduated with a Masters of Arts in Psychology in 2021 where I focused on developmental psychology, clinical practice, and trauma studies. These degrees reflect my holistic view of the needs of others, which entails taking care of all facets of the human experience.
I have experience in corporate team leadership with a major national corporation, which gave me education in managing multiple people and improving team morale. My time as a medical recruiter provided insight in how to seek out quality employees, while advocating for their needs. I’ve worked at two medical practices managing patient care, insurance transactions, and several other facets. These steps in my career further strengthened my resolve in assisting people when they feel lost and unsupported. I understand how to strongly maintain client/patient confidentiality and do all I can to improve their experience. We all deserve to be taken care of and be advocated for. Any industry needs someone behind the scenes who is willing and able to take care of both sides of the experience. As office manager, I hope to create an environment where employees and clients feel safe, protected, and secure along each journey. I look forward to supporting these ideals at Volkara Law and with you.
W. Marie Elianor, Associate Attorney
W. Marie Elianor is an attorney practicing civil litigation, estate planning, guardianship, and probate law. Renowned for her meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to her clients, Marie delivers sophisticated legal solutions tailored to their unique needs. Her practice is marked by a dedication to excellence and a deep understanding of complex legal matters.
A proud member of The Florida Bar, Marie is an Elder Law Section Fellow for 2025-2027. Marie actively participates in the Real Property, Probate, and Trust Law Section where she serves on the Law School Council. She is also a charter board member of the Bernice Gaines Dorn Black Women Lawyers Association, Inc., and holds prominent leadership roles in organizations such as Helping Elders Loving People, Inc., and Coast To Coast Legal Aid Of South Florida, Inc., where she chairs key committees. Her dedication to the legal profession and her community exemplifies her commitment to excellence and service.
Marie earned her Juris Doctor from Florida International University College of Law. She served as President of the Real Property, Probate, and Trust Law Society for two academic years. Her academic accolades reflect her dedication to advancing the legal profession.
In addition to her distinguished legal career, Marie has extensive executive experience as a Chief Financial Officer and is a licensed real estate agent. Her unique combination of legal, financial, and real estate expertise allows her to provide unparalleled guidance to her clients, making her a trusted advisor in navigating their most significant legal and financial matters.
Education
University of Florida (B.A., magna cum laude, 1996)
University of Florida (M.A., 1998)
Florida International University (J.D., 2024)
Our Mission
Our mission, driven by our purpose to advocate fiercely and compassionately for every client, is to ensure that equity and justice are not just ideals, but realities. We approach each case with strategic strength and empathetic counsel, guaranteeing every voice is heard and every right defended. We stand beside our clients, fighting for them with transparency and conviction, while illuminating their ability to advocate for themselves in their future.
Fire has the unique ability to both destroy and transform. A controlled burn is a tool that can help prevent larger destructions by creating new space for necessary change. At Volkara Law, we bring clarity, courage, and the will to ignite the fire of change. Our work is grounded in the belief that the law should serve as a force for equity while conflict and adversity can often lead to beautiful transformations. We exist to protect the vulnerable, empower the unheard, and fight without fear—because justice should never be out of reach.
Our Vision
At Volkara Law we envision a world where justice is accessible, equity is expected, and every individual—regardless of their background or hardship—has the opportunity to build a secure, empowered future.
Through transformative and trauma-informed legal advocacy, we strive to dismantle systemic barriers, protect what matters most, and help forge paths toward lasting change. Volkara Law aims to be a guiding force of light in the lives of those we serve, igniting not only legal victories, but generational transformation.
Our Values
Our Approach
Our Promise
Empathy, transparency, and a commitment to justice guide everything we do—from your first call to final resolution.
Our Promise
Our Approach
Our Promise
From consultation to resolution, we keep you informed, empowered, and never alone in your legal journey.
Our Promise
Our Approach
Our Approach
Every client matters. We treat each case with care, honesty, and the same dedication we’d offer our own family.
Our Approach
Our Approach
Our Approach
We listen first, act with intention, and build strategies that align with your goals, rights, and real-world challenges