Zoe E. Niesel

Zoe E. Niesel is a distinguished legal scholar and educator currently serving as the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and the Albert Herrman Professor of Law at St. Mary's University School of Law. With a robust academic background, she earned her Juris Doctor from Wake Forest University School of Law and her Bachelor of Arts from Southern Methodist University. Her scholarly pursuits are deeply rooted in civil procedure, federal court jurisdiction, and conflict of laws, areas in which she has contributed significantly through numerous publications in esteemed law reviews. In addition to her teaching and research roles, Professor Niesel is the Director of Assessment and Statistics at St. Mary's Law School. In this capacity, she leverages her expertise in data analysis to refine the law school's curriculum and enhance bar exam preparation strategies, ensuring that students are well-equipped for their legal careers. Her commitment to academic excellence and student success is evident in her innovative approach to legal education. Before her tenure at St. Mary's, Professor Niesel imparted her knowledge at Wake Forest University, where she began her teaching career. Her practical legal experience is equally impressive, having worked as an associate attorney specializing in complex commercial litigation. This role honed her skills in navigating intricate legal challenges and provided her with a wealth of practical insights that she now shares with her students. Professor Niesel's legal acumen is further underscored by her licensure to practice law in both Texas and North Carolina. Her professional journey includes a prestigious clerkship with Judge Thomas D. Schroder of the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina, where she gained invaluable experience in federal court proceedings and judicial decision-making processes. Her contributions to the legal field extend beyond academia, as she actively engages in research that addresses contemporary legal issues. Through her work, Professor Niesel continues to influence the discourse on civil procedure and jurisdictional matters, making her a respected voice in the legal community. Her dedication to advancing legal scholarship and education remains a driving force in her career.