Marie Failinger

Marie Failinger is a Professor of Law at Mitchell Hamline School of Law, where she has been teaching since December 2015. She previously served as Interim Dean of Hamline University School of Law and held the Judge Edward J. Devitt Professorship. Her academic career spans decades, with a strong focus on constitutional liberties, religion and the law, and social justice. She is recognized for her leadership in legal education and service to the profession.

Education:

• B.A., with high distinction, 1973, Valparaiso University
• J.D., with high distinction, 1976, Valparaiso University School of Law
• LL.M., 1983, Yale Law School

Professor Failinger's research and teaching focus on constitutional law, particularly civil liberties, religion and the Constitution, feminist legal theory, criminal law, family law, and property law from jurisprudential and comparative perspectives. Her work integrates themes of justice, equity, and moral responsibility, often bridging law with religion and ethics. Her scholarship and teaching reflect a deep commitment to equal justice and the role of law in fostering a compassionate society.

Her many honors include the Elizabeth Hurlock Beckman Award, the Minnesota Lawyer Attorney of the Year, the Myra Bradwell Award from Minnesota Women Lawyers, and the Journal of Law and Religion Achievement Award. She was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws by Valparaiso University in 2014.

• Doctor of Laws honoris causa, Valparaiso University (2014)
• Elizabeth Hurlock Beckman Award
• Minnesota Lawyer Attorney of the Year Award
• Minnesota Women Lawyers Myra Bradwell Award
• Service to MWL awards
• Journal of Law and Religion Achievement Award
• Wesley Faculty Award
• Minnesota Justice Foundation Law School Professor award

Professor Failinger has advised numerous students and mentored future legal professionals, though specific names are not listed. She has been involved in significant professional service, including leadership in legal aid organizations and law teaching associations. She played a key role in the Loan Repayment Assistance Board and has contributed to initiatives supporting legal services for the underserved.

She served as Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Law and Religion from 1989 to 2013 and has been active in organizations such as the Council on Religion and Law, National Equal Justice Library, and Church Innovations Institute. She is a founding member of the Infinity Project and has served on boards related to American Indian policy, Lutheran ethics, and Muslim women’s legal advocacy (Karamah).