Shelly Skeen

Shelly L. Skeen is a Senior Staff Attorney at Lambda Legal, the oldest and largest national civil rights legal organization working for equality for LGBTQ+ people and those living with HIV.1 Here are some key details about her:

Professional Background

Shelly Skeen has nearly 25 years of experience as a practicing attorney and is a seasoned litigator, appellate practitioner, mediator, and arbitrator.1 She joined Lambda Legal in 2019 and has since worked on numerous groundbreaking cases and advocacy efforts, particularly in Texas.2

Role at Lambda Legal

As the South-Central Regional Director for Lambda Legal, Skeen focuses on impact litigation, public policy advocacy, and education to advance LGBTQ+ rights.1 She has been involved in fighting anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and policies in Texas.2

Education and Expertise

Skeen holds an LL.M. from UCLA School of Law, with specializations in Constitutional Law and Law & Sexuality.13 She is an expert in civil rights, gender, and the law, and teaches courses on emerging issues in these areas as an adjunct faculty member at the University of Texas School of Law.1

Professional Achievements

• Named a "Living Legend" by the Dallas Bar Association1
• Awarded The Franklin Jones Award for the Best Continuing Legal Education Article by the Texas Bar College in 20161
• Received the Judge Black Award from the LGBTQ Law Section for her work on behalf of the LGBTQ+ community1
• Has filed amici briefs in the U.S. Supreme Court and successfully appeared before the Texas Supreme Court1

Leadership Positions

• Served as Chair of the LGBTQ Law Section for the State Bar of Texas1
• Former President of the Dallas LGBT Bar Association1
• Served on the CLE Committee of the State Bar of Texas for 7 years1

Shelly Skeen is a dedicated advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, combining her legal expertise with a passion for advancing equality through litigation, education, and policy work.