Connect with Leslie:

Email: leslie@thecaissagroup.com
Office: 202.981.2037

Education:

• M.A. and Ph.D. in Social Psychology from the University of Illinois at Chicago

  • Specializations in Psychology & Law, and Statistics, Methods & Measurement.

• B.A. in Psychology from Northwestern University

• WSET Level 2 Certification in Wine and Spirits; Level 3 Certification in Wine

Affiliations:

• American Society of Trial Consultants (Past President)

• American Bar Association (Member, Litigation Section)

• Women’s Bar Association of Washington, D.C.

• American Psychology - Law Society

• American Psychological Association

• University Club of Washington, D.C.

• University Club of Washington, D.C. Foundation (Member, Board of Directors)

Dr. Leslie Ellis has been conducting research on jury, judicial and arbitrator decision making for over 25 years. She has consulted on hundreds of cases across the United States, U.S. territories, and internationally. She works with clients on high-risk and complex cases in all industries and areas of litigation. 

In providing unparalleled advice to our clients, we rely on years of studying legal decision making through academic research, mock studies, post-trial interviews, and field research on real juries. We utilize strong research training to develop programs of qualitative and quantitative research designed to help clients make those difficult decisions that arise in every case.

The Caissa Group’s work with our clients regularly entails small group research, large surveys, strategic consulting, and assistance with all aspects of jury selection, trial preparation and support. We work with clients preparing for jury trials, bench trials, domestic and international arbitrations, and mediations. In addition, Dr. Ellis frequently speaks, writes, and is interviewed on topics related to jury, judicial and arbitrator decision making. We also regularly provide professional development opportunities through CLEs, webinars, lectures, customized firm presentations and training programs, and one-on-one consultations.

Some of our special research interests include:

• The dynamics of the jury decision-making process

• Understanding judicial and arbitral decision making

• How juries decide damage awards

• Jury trial innovation and reform

• Minority representation on juries

• We have also participated in efforts to support and advise women on communication styles and career development in traditionally male-dominated fields.

Outside of work, Leslie and her husband recently lived in London for two years, where she earned a Level 3 Certificate in Wine (with Merit) from the Wine and Spirit Education Trust. She also loves to cook, travel, read and play tennis. She is an involved member of the University Club of Washington, D.C. and volunteers with various non-profit organizations.