Ellen Marrus

CEO, Co-Founder, Director

Ellen is a retired law school professor, director of clinical programs, and a former juvenile defender.

She earned her J.D. in 1990 and her LL.M. from Georgetown University Law Center in 1992.

She joined the University of Houston Law Center in 1995, managed the clinical programs, and taught several courses, including juvenile law, child welfare, and children’s rights. Before becoming a lawyer, she taught all levels from preschool to college and managed community programs for children and families. As a defender, she represented youth in delinquency proceedings and children and families in child welfare cases. Her experience working with children and youth helped her develop a holistic approach to representation.

She encourages youth to have their voices heard. She believes it is important to teach young people about their rights and responsibilities, provide guidance on making good choices, and teach them how to advocate for themselves.

She is a recognized expert in juvenile law, children’s rights, and professional ethics, and has authored resources, numerous articles, and books in these areas.

She has also spoken at national and international conferences on children’s issues, improving the justice system to meet youth’s needs, and giving youth a voice.