Carlos A. Ball

Professor Carlos A. Ball is a Distinguished Professor of Law and Judge Frederick Lacey Scholar at Rutgers Law School. Since joining the faculty in 2008, he has established himself as a leading authority in the fields of LGBTQ rights law and constitutional law. His scholarly contributions include an extensive array of books and articles that have significantly influenced contemporary legal discourse. Before his tenure at Rutgers, Professor Ball honed his legal expertise at the Legal Aid Society in New York City, where he provided invaluable legal assistance to underserved communities. His academic career also includes teaching positions at the University of Illinois College of Law and Penn State School of Law, where he further developed his pedagogical approach and research interests. At Rutgers, Professor Ball teaches courses on Constitutional Law, the First Amendment, and Sexuality, Gender Identity, and the Law. His dedication to teaching excellence has been recognized by his students, who named him Teacher of the Year in both 2011 and 2018. His engaging teaching style and commitment to student success have made him a beloved figure among the Rutgers Law community. Professor Ball's academic journey began with a Bachelor of Arts degree from Tufts University. He then pursued a Juris Doctor degree at Columbia Law School, where he developed a strong foundation in legal principles. Furthering his education, he earned a Master of Laws degree from Cambridge University, which enriched his understanding of international legal frameworks. Throughout his career, Professor Ball has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ rights, using his platform to advance legal protections and equality. His work continues to inspire both students and colleagues, making him a pivotal figure in the ongoing dialogue surrounding civil rights and constitutional law.