Daniel Melo
Government Transparency Attorney
Holding the government accountable, one record at time.
About
I’m an attorney with over a decade of experience using the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to support noncitizens, advocates, and communities impacted by government secrecy. My work sits at the intersection of transparency, immigration, and racial justice — helping individuals access the records that shape their lives and legal outcomes.I’ve written and spoken nationally about FOIA strategy and accountability, litigating FOIA cases, and published a book on the impacts of capitalism on U.S. immigration. I bring a lived commitment to equity and access as a queer, mixed-race professional working to demystify opaque systems and stand alongside those fighting for truth and justice.This practice is grounded in a belief that public records belong to the public — and that with the right tools, ordinary people can demand what power tries to hide.And hide it does: At a time where government transparency is more critical than ever, federal agencies have consistently shunned their obligations under FOIA to respond to requests in days, not weeks, months, or years.Whether you are an attorney seeking critical records for your clients, a journalist or advocate trying to hold the government to public account, or a member of the public simply seeking to have democracy done in the light of day, I can help in court.
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