Background
Lauren Ferris (like the wheel) is, and has always been, a go-getter. She sets her standards very high, and will continue to fight for change until her vision has been reached. Working as a public servant for many years, Lauren has a history of excellence, and holds the public interest very close to heart. Please explore the site to find out more about Lauren Ferris and her vision for change.


A COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE
I was born and raised in El Paso, Texas, granddaughter of Lebanese immigrants. My grandparents instilled in me and my family, the importance of values of compassion, perseverance, education, family, and public service to name a few. I have never lost those and have remained active in public service my entire life, both professionally and personally. I have deep roots in the community and have long been dedicated to serving it. Throughout my life time, I volunteered with my church and various non profit organizations such as the Rescue Mission, Child Crisis Center, Villa Maria, and Dame La Mano. I was involved in honor societies and band while at UTEP. I graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelors Degree of Political Science Major and Criminal Justice Minor. I then went on to law school.
I graduated from the University of Arkansas, Bowen Law School. During my time there, I served as an officer of multiple organizations: Student Bar Association, Arkansas Student Association of Women Lawyers, Hispanic Law Students Association, and Delta Theta Phi Fraternity. I led the organization for all volunteer activities. I was a Big Sister as part of the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, a Sunday School teacher, and I would also volunteer at the local legal clinic serving underprivileged individuals. I received training to be a part of the Bowen Immigration Rapid Response team that provided services to immigrants. I also taught U.S. Citizenship classes. I earned the Distinguished Dean's Certificate of Public Service for completing over 300 hours of volunteer time during my 2 1/2 years in law school.
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Upon my return to El Paso, I wasted no time in getting involved with my local community again. Currently, I am on the UTEP Alumni Association's Board of Directions, a member of the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, Texas Bar College (an honorary group for lawyers through invitation only that go above and beyond the required legal education and ethical standards), and serve on the board for the El Paso Young Lawyers Association. I also serve as mentor to young adults as a part of a mentorship in law program. I am also the Humanitarian Coordinator on the local and national level for the church and Vice President of the Ladies Society at my church.
Immediately upon passing the bar exam, I began working as Social Security Disability Law attorney for Wayne Wright, LLP. I then worked as an Assistant City Attorney for various City departments and Prosecutor for the City of El Paso for almost 7 years. I know how the government works and operates from the other side. After working as an Assistant City Attorney, I opened my own practice as an defense attorney, zealously advocating for my clients, and also handle estate planning cases. I am licensed to practice in the United States District Court, Western District of Texas (federal court). In addition to the practice of law, I am a volunteer Mediator with the El Paso Dispute Resolution Center. I am trained and skilled in helping resolve high conflict situations, most importantly with dignity and respect.
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In January 2020, I was appointed as a Municipal Court Judge by the Mayor and City Council of El Paso. After my Judgeship term ended, I continued practicing law at my own law firm.
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I am also a national award winning baker! I won the Nestle Tollhouse "Bake Some Love" contest with a giant-heart shaped guitar cookie. I love hiking, camping, backpacking, kickball, and enjoying our beautiful nature!
If elected as District 1 City Council Representative, there are many areas of improvement I would like to focus on. A few of those include battling high taxes, being more fiscally conservative, improving roads and bringing sidewalks and amenities into ADA compliance, seeing the expansion of our animal services facility and implementing additional resources to help with the overcrowding of our fur babies (which was already approved with COs in 2019), and improving parks for families and the community to enjoy. Most importantly, listening to the community's concerns and issues.
Additionally, I have the passion for serving others and a commitment to public service and to my City as my background indicates- not just in recent times, but throughout my whole life. I understand the work it takes to hold public office. I am capable and determined to put in the hard work necessary to ensure that the City of El Paso continues to move forward on a progressive manner that is beneficial to all community members.
As a former Municipal Court Judge, I ran my court with integrity, respect, fairness, and efficiency, saving tax dollars and time. Through all my previous experience, it has afforded me the knowledge to be the most qualified candidate to represent District 1.
I appreciate your continued support!
