Elizabeth Barchas Prelogar, the 48th Solicitor General of the United States, has made significant contributions to the legal field. From her early life and education to her career achievements, let’s delve into the details of this accomplished lawyer.
Elizabeth Barchas Prelogar, the 48th Solicitor General of the United States, has made significant contributions to the legal field. Beyond her professional accomplishments, her personal life is equally intriguing. Let’s delve into the life of this remarkable woman, including details about her husband and family.
Early Life and Education
Born on March 7, 1980, in Boise, Idaho, Elizabeth Prelogar grew up as the youngest of four children. She attended Boise High School and displayed exceptional academic prowess. Her journey continued at Emory University, where she double-majored in English and Russian.
As a Fulbright Scholar, she excelled and graduated summa cum laude in 2002. Later, she pursued creative writing at the University of St. Andrews, earning an M.Litt. with distinction. Her educational journey culminated at Harvard Law School, where she graduated magna cum laude in 2008. Fluent in Russian, she won an Overseas Press Club scholarship to study Russian media and censorship during her time at Harvard.
Legal Career
Prelogar’s legal career is marked by impressive milestones. After law school, she clerked for Judge Merrick Garland, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and Justice Elena Kagan. These experiences shaped her understanding of the legal system. She then entered private practice, working as an associate at Hogan Lovells in Washington, D.C. Her expertise extended to teaching a course on Supreme Court and appellate advocacy at Harvard Law School.
Family Life
In 2008, Elizabeth married Brandon Prelogar. The couple has two sons, Blaise and Beckett. Their family life, though private, reflects the balance between demanding legal careers and personal commitments.
Role as Solicitor General
Prelogar’s journey led her to the Office of the Solicitor General. As the 48th Solicitor General, she oversees Supreme Court litigation on behalf of the United States. Her responsibilities include determining federal appeals, filing amicus curiae briefs, and assisting in developing Department program policy. Her nomination by President Joe Biden in 2021 and subsequent confirmation highlight her exceptional legal acumen.
Early Life and Education
Elizabeth Prelogar was born on March 7, 1980, in Boise, Idaho. She grew up in a family of four children, with two older brothers, Joshua and Eric, and an older sister, Leah. Tragically, Joshua passed away shortly after his birth. Elizabeth graduated from Boise High School in 1998 and embarked on an impressive educational journey.
- Emory University: Elizabeth attended Emory University, where she double majored in English and Russian. She was a Fulbright Scholar and graduated summa cum laude with her B.A. in 2002.
- University of St. Andrews: In 2002 and 2003, Prelogar studied creative writing at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland, earning an M.Litt. with distinction.
- Harvard Law School: She continued her education at Harvard Law School, where she served as an articles editor for the Harvard Law Review. Elizabeth graduated magna cum laude with her J.D. in 2008.
Career Highlights
Elizabeth Prelogar’s legal career has been marked by notable achievements:
- Law Clerkships:
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- She clerked for Judge Merrick Garland of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit (2008-2009).
- She then clerked for U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg (2009-2010) and Justice Elena Kagan (2010-2011).
- Private Practice:
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- Elizabeth worked as an associate at Hogan Lovells in Washington, D.C.
- She focused on Supreme Court and appellate litigation, later becoming a partner at Cooley LLP.
- Assistant to the Solicitor General:
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- From 2014 to 2019, Prelogar served as an assistant to the solicitor general.
- She briefed and argued multiple cases in the Supreme Court and helped formulate the government’s appellate strategy in lower courts.
- Pro Bono Work and Teaching:
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- Elizabeth devoted substantial time to pro bono litigation while in private practice.
- She also co-taught a course on Supreme Court and appellate advocacy at Harvard Law School.
Personal Life
- Family: Elizabeth married Brandon Prelogar in 2008, and they have two sons together, Blaise and Beckett.
- Social Life: She lives in Washington, D.C., balancing her demanding legal career with family life.
- Social Media Activity: While Elizabeth maintains a professional presence, she keeps her personal life relatively private.
Conclusion
Elizabeth Prelogar’s journey from Boise to the highest echelons of the legal system exemplifies dedication, intelligence, and resilience. Her impact on the legal landscape will continue to be felt for years to come.
Elizabeth Prelogar’s story is one of resilience, dedication, and achievement. From her early days in Idaho to her current role as Solicitor General, she exemplifies excellence. Her husband, Brandon, and their two sons form the foundation of her personal life. As she continues to shape legal history, her journey remains an inspiration to aspiring lawyers worldwide.