Jennifer Ellis

Senior Lecturer and Director of Advocacy Programs

Jennifer-Ellis

"Always try your best and be courteous."

Get to Know Jennifer Ellis

What drew you to the law?
I really enjoy helping people.  I used to be a social worker and wanted to be able to help people with their legal troubles.


What do you enjoy most about teaching?
I love working with the students.  My favorite part is getting to know them while we train and practice for competitions.


What do you hope students gain from your courses?
I hope that students learn practical advocacy skills - how to write effectively, how to argue confidently, and how to believe in themselves and their ability to win, both at competition and for their future clients.


What did you do prior to entering academia?
After law school, I practiced family law and probate at Payma, Kuhnel and Smith, PC.


What are you passionate about outside the law?
My family.  My husband and I have two children, who are now adults.  And we have two hyper puppies that keep us busy.


What are your research interests?
Appellate law

Expertise

  • Appellate Advocacy - written and oral
  • Trial Advocacy
  • Negotiation

Courses

  • Faculty Supervisor for all advocacy competition courses - moot court, mock trial and ADR

Academic Experience

  • Director, Advocacy Programs
    Texas Wesleyan University School of Law (2010-2013)
    Texas A&M University School of Law (2013-present)

Education

  • J.D., Texas Wesleyan University
  • M.S.S.W., University of Texas - Arlington
  • B.A., University of Texas - Austin

Awards / Honors

  • Regional Champion and Best Brief - National Moot Court Competition, 2005
  • Regional Champion and National Semi-Finalist and 2nd place Best Brief - ABA National Appellate Advocacy Competition, 2004
  • Order of Barristers - 2005

Other Professional Activities

  • St. Thomas Catholic Church in Dallas
  • Volunteers at Lakehill Preparatory School in Dallas