Leigh Ellis

Leigh Ellis, JD, is an Assistant Professor at the Creighton University School of Law since 2023. She specializes in juvenile law, child welfare proceedings, and criminal defense, with extensive experience in bench trials, jury trials, and appellate advocacy.

• Joined Creighton University School of Law faculty in 2023
• Former public defender in Douglas County, Nebraska
• Recognized for appellate success in In re Interest of Victor L.

Education:

• Juris Doctor (JD) from Elisabeth Haub School of Law (formerly Pace Law School), New York
• Bachelor's degree from American University, Washington, DC
• Master of Public Administration (MPA) from University of Nebraska, Omaha

Professional Experience:

• Public Defender, Douglas County, Nebraska: Focused on juvenile law, child welfare, and adult criminal defense
• Children’s Advocacy Unit, Legal Services of the Hudson Valley, New York
• Health Education and Law Project (HELP), Legal Aid of Nebraska

Scientific Awards & Honors:

• Most Promising Pace Law Student Award
• Dean's Award
• Vanessa Merton Public Service Award

Personal Interests: Science fiction literature, endurance sports (100-mile ultramarathon runner), long-distance cycling across Nebraska, and backpacking the Camino de Santiago.