30 Facts About Judge Sara Ellis

Early Life and Education

Judge Sara Ellis has an impressive background that laid the foundation for her career. Here are some interesting facts about her early life and education.

1. Born in London, Ontario, Canada, Sara Ellis moved to the United States at a young age.
2. She attended the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1991.
3. Ellis pursued her Juris Doctor degree at Loyola University Chicago School of Law, graduating in 1994.
4. During law school, she served as an editor for the Loyola University Chicago Law Journal.

Legal Career Beginnings

Before becoming a judge, Sara Ellis had a diverse legal career. These facts highlight her early professional journey.

5. Ellis started her legal career as a law clerk for Judge Susan Pierson Sonderby in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Illinois.
6. She worked as an associate at the law firm of Schiff Hardin LLP, focusing on commercial litigation.
7. Ellis also served as a staff attorney for the Federal Defender Program in Chicago, representing indigent defendants in federal criminal cases.
8. She gained experience in civil rights litigation while working at the law firm of Stowell & Friedman, Ltd.

Federal Judicial Service

Judge Sara Ellis's appointment to the federal bench marked a significant milestone in her career. Here are some key facts about her judicial service.

9. President Barack Obama nominated Ellis to the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois in 2013.
10. She was confirmed by the Senate on October 7, 2013, and received her judicial commission on October 8, 2013.
11. Ellis is known for her fair and balanced approach to cases, earning respect from both colleagues and litigants.
12. She has presided over a variety of cases, including complex commercial disputes, civil rights cases, and criminal matters.

Notable Cases

Judge Ellis has handled several high-profile cases during her tenure. These facts shed light on some of the most notable ones.

13. In 2015, she presided over a case involving the Chicago Police Department's use of excessive force, resulting in significant reforms.
14. Ellis ruled on a major class-action lawsuit against a large pharmaceutical company, addressing issues of consumer fraud and false advertising.
15. She handled a high-profile case involving a Ponzi scheme, ensuring justice for the victims and holding the perpetrators accountable.
16. Ellis has also ruled on cases involving intellectual property disputes, setting important precedents in the field.

Professional Affiliations and Contributions

Judge Ellis is actively involved in various professional organizations and contributes to the legal community in numerous ways.

17. She is a member of the American Bar Association and the Chicago Bar Association.
18. Ellis has served on the board of directors for the Federal Bar Association's Chicago Chapter.
19. She frequently speaks at legal conferences and seminars, sharing her expertise on topics such as civil rights and criminal justice reform.
20. Ellis is committed to mentoring young lawyers and law students, helping to shape the next generation of legal professionals.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond her professional achievements, Judge Ellis has a rich personal life and diverse interests. Here are some facts about her life outside the courtroom.

21. Ellis is an avid reader and enjoys exploring different genres of literature.
22. She is passionate about travel and has visited numerous countries around the world.
23. Ellis is a dedicated advocate for animal rights and supports various animal welfare organizations.
24. She enjoys cooking and experimenting with new recipes in her free time.

Awards and Recognitions

Judge Ellis's contributions to the legal field have not gone unnoticed. These facts highlight some of the awards and recognitions she has received.

25. In 2016, she was honored with the Chicago Bar Association's Vanguard Award for her commitment to diversity and inclusion in the legal profession.
26. Ellis received the Loyola University Chicago School of Law's Distinguished Alumni Award in 2018.
27. She was recognized by the Women's Bar Association of Illinois for her outstanding contributions to the legal community.
28. Ellis has been featured in various legal publications, highlighting her achievements and impact on the field.

Future Aspirations

Judge Ellis continues to look forward to making a difference in the legal world. Here are some facts about her future aspirations.

29. She aims to further promote access to justice for underserved communities.
30. Ellis is committed to advancing criminal justice reform and addressing systemic issues within the legal system.

Judge Sara Ellis: A Remarkable Journey

Judge Sara Ellis has carved out an impressive career. From her early days in law school to her current role as a U.S. District Judge, she's shown dedication and resilience. Her rulings often reflect a deep understanding of the law and a commitment to justice. Beyond the courtroom, she’s known for her community involvement and efforts to mentor young lawyers. Her story is one of hard work, perseverance, and a passion for the legal system. Whether you’re a law student, a practicing attorney, or just someone interested in the judiciary, Judge Ellis’s career offers valuable insights and inspiration. Her journey reminds us that with determination and a strong sense of purpose, significant achievements are possible. Judge Sara Ellis continues to make a lasting impact on the legal community and beyond.