Capitol News

Two prosecutors from the Michigan Department of Attorney General have received significant recognition for their work in the legal field. Robyn N. Liddell and Melissa Palepu were recently honored with awards that highlight their service to Michigan residents and their impact on the justice system.

“Robyn and Melissa exemplify the very best of the Department of Attorney General,” said Attorney General Dana Nessel. “Their tireless work to protect Michigan residents and uphold the law makes a real difference every day, and these honors are well deserved.”

Robyn N. Liddell, who leads the Criminal Trials Division, was named to the Michigan Lawyers Weekly Class of 2025 “Influential Women of Law.” This award recognizes women attorneys and judges for their achievements within the justice system, dedication to clients, commitment to community service, and leadership in the profession.

Liddell began her tenure at the Department of Attorney General in 2014 as an Assistant Attorney General in the Criminal Division. She advanced to First Assistant Attorney General in 2020 before becoming Division Chief in 2023. In her current position, she oversees investigations and prosecutions involving complex criminal cases such as sexual assaults, intimate partner violence, police misconduct, and public integrity matters.

Prior to joining the department, Liddell worked as an Assistant Prosecutor at the Washtenaw County Prosecutor's Office where she focused on domestic violence, sex crimes, and child abuse cases. She also provided crisis intervention support at Ann Arbor's Domestic Violence Project. Liddell holds a Bachelor’s degree in African American Studies from Oberlin College and a law degree from Michigan State University Law School.

Melissa Palepu serves as an Attorney Specialist focusing on human trafficking and child abuse for the department. She received the International Association of Prosecutors Special Achievement Award for her efforts against child sexual exploitation and human trafficking in Michigan. The award is given to prosecutors who show exceptional dedication under challenging circumstances with contributions recognized internationally.

Palepu has been instrumental in prosecuting human trafficking cases within Michigan’s Department of Attorney General. She also chairs the Michigan Human Trafficking Commission.

Her previous roles include serving as an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney with Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office and acting as General Counsel for the Wayne County Land Bank. Palepu earned her undergraduate degree in Political Science and History from University of Michigan – Ann Arbor before obtaining her Juris Doctorate from University of Detroit Mercy School of Law.