Lauren James, '21, returns to Mercer Law as Associate Director of Advocacy

Lauren James joined Mercer Law School in July 2025 as the School’s first associate director of advocacy. This new position will support both the law school advocacy program and the undergraduate mock trial team.

A proud Mercer Law alumna, James brings courtroom experience, exceptional legal writing skills, and deep roots in the School’s nationally recognized advocacy program.

After earning her J.D. and Legal Writing Certificate, James clerked at the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals, gaining valuable insight into the appellate process. She later entered civil private practice, where she advised clients, engaged in negotiations, and represented parties in mediations. While in law school, she also served as a student public defender in Houston County.

At Mercer, James was editor-in-chief of the Mercer Law Review and chaired the Student Bar Association’s Academic Affairs Committee. She earned faculty recognition and multiple CALI awards in legal writing and litigation-focused courses.

As a student and alumna, James competed and coached in national trial competitions. Now, she teaches trial advocacy and coaches multiple Mercer Law and Mercer undergraduate mock trial teams, sharing her expertise and commitment to excellence with the next generation of advocates.

“We are thrilled to welcome Lauren back to Mercer Law,” said Katie Powers, ’09, assistant dean of advocacy. “She was an exemplary student, an exceptional advocate, an outstanding alumni coach, and a natural leader, and now she brings those same qualities to this new role. Lauren’s talent, energy, and genuine passion for advocacy will be a tremendous asset to our students. I have no doubt she will help them grow into confident, skilled, and principled advocates who will excel in the courtroom and beyond.”