Ann Davis Shields

Ann Davis Shields is a Professor of Practice at the School of Law, Washington University in St. Louis, specializing in legal writing, dispute resolution, litigation procedures, and civil rights law. She serves as a certified Neutral for the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri and maintains an active mediation practice in employment and civil rights cases.

Education:

• A.B., Washington University, 1985
• J.D., Washington University School of Law, 1993

Research and Teaching Interests: Professor Shields focuses on practical legal skill development through legal writing pedagogy, negotiation theory, mediation techniques, pretrial litigation strategy, and appellate advocacy frameworks. Her work bridges doctrinal civil rights and employment law with hands-on practice skills, emphasizing real-world application in professional settings. She regularly contributes to national discourse on legal education methodology through conference presentations.

Scientific Awards:

• David M. Becker Professor of the Year (2018)
• Missouri Lawyers Weekly’s Women’s Justice Award for Legal Scholars (2012)
• Washington University Law’s International Women’s Day Award (2003)

Advising and Grants: While specific student advising details and research grants aren't documented in available materials, Professor Shields teaches core skills courses including Legal Practice I & II, Negotiation, and Pretrial Practice and Procedure. Her professional mediation practice demonstrates applied expertise in employment disputes and civil rights litigation, complementing her academic role through active Missouri Bar membership and federal court certification.