Colleen Parker

Colleen Parker is an Assistant Professor of Legal Writing at the St. John's University School of Law. She previously served as an Adjunct Professor teaching Legal Writing I & II, Public Interest Drafting, and the Externship Seminar. Prior to academia, she practiced commercial litigation in New York City before transitioning to specialize in special education law, representing parents in disputes with school districts. She also served as an impartial hearing officer for the New York City Department of Education. Parker holds a J.D. cum laude from St. John’s Law, where she was a member of the American Bankruptcy Institute Law Review, and a B.B.A. from the University of Notre Dame.

Education:

• J.D., cum laude, St. John’s University School of Law
• B.B.A., University of Notre Dame

Research & Professional Focus: Colleen’s expertise spans legal writing instruction, special education advocacy, and education law. Her career bridges litigation experience with a commitment to accessible legal education, particularly in empowering parents of children with disabilities. Her teaching portfolio includes foundational legal writing skills and experiential learning through externships.

Professional Roles:

• Former Adjunct Professor, St. John’s Law
• Private Practitioner specializing in special education law
• Impartial Hearing Officer, NYC Department of Education
• Assistant Director of Career Development, St. John’s Law

Advising & Externships: Colleen has mentored students through externship programs and legal writing workshops, emphasizing practical legal skills. Her prior advocacy work involved advising parents on their children’s educational rights under federal law.