Carla Leader, J.D.

Carla Leader, an attorney at Connell Michael Kerr, LLP's Indiana and Ohio Education Law Division, has nearly 20 years of experience dedicated to advocating for and safeguarding the legal and civil rights of children. Her experience encompasses special education due process, Section 504, student expulsion, Section 1983, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and other federal and education law matters. Clients across Indiana and Ohio benefit from her exceptional legal services.

Carla holds a B.A. in psychology and women's studies from Washington University in St. Louis. She pursued her law degree at the American University Washington College of Law. Following law school, she served as a clerk for Judge Ronna Lee Beck in D.C. Superior Court from 2000-2001.

Carla then dedicated her career to prosecuting child abuse and neglect cases at the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia. She later worked with Legal Aid and eventually established her own successful law firm. Carla's commitment to advocating for children goes beyond her profession; it is a personal calling. Her impactful work has garnered media recognition on multiple occasions. Additionally, Carla co-hosts the educational and legal podcast Parental Guidance with Catherine Michael.

Education

• American University, Washington College of Law, Washington, District of Columbia
• Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri
  • B.A.
  • Major: Psychology and Women's Studies

Bar Admissions

• Indiana
• Ohio

Practice Areas

• Special Education