Early Life and Education

Raised in Saint Paul, Minnesota, Laura Coates went on to attend Princeton University, where she graduated from the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs. She then earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Minnesota Law School. Her strong academic background laid the foundation for a diverse and influential legal career.

Legal Career and Public Service

Coates began her legal career in private practice, specializing in intellectual property litigation, First Amendment issues, defamation, and media law. Practicing in both Minnesota and New York, she developed expertise in handling high-stakes legal matters involving the intersection of law, media, and civil rights.

Driven by a commitment to public service, she transitioned to the U.S. Department of Justice, where she served during the administrations of Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama. As a Trial Attorney in the Civil Rights Division, Coates focused primarily on enforcing the Voting Rights Act, working to protect the rights of eligible voters across the nation.

She later served as an Assistant United States Attorney for the District of Columbia. In that role, she prosecuted a broad range of criminal cases, including offenses related to drug trafficking, firearms violations, domestic violence, child abuse, and sexual assault.

Media Presence and Commentary

Laura Coates has become a respected voice across multiple media platforms, known for her insightful legal analysis and commentary. Her professional background and communication skills make her a trusted contributor on issues involving constitutional law, civil rights, and justice reform. She has also engaged audiences through her writing, publishing works that reflect both her legal expertise and advocacy for equality.