Claire Smelser

Claire was born and raised in Tuscaloosa. After graduating from high school, she attended Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas, where she received her Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies. At SMU, she was a member of the Chi Omega Fraternity, as well as K-Life and Reformed University Fellowship groups.She then returned to Tuscaloosa and received her juris doctor from the University of Alabama School of Law in May 2019. During her time at UA, she was Lead Articles Editor for the Law and Psychology Review, Vice President of the Christian Legal Society, and a member of the Dobrin Association, which promotes the growth and professional development of women in the law. She also married her husband, John David, who teaches and coaches high school students. Claire’s passion for the practice of law found root in education law, labor and employment law, and general litigation. When Claire is not working, she enjoys spending time with her family on Lake Tuscaloosa, and taking walks around UA campus and the Riverwalk with her husband.

EDUCATION

SMU – BA

University of Alabama – Juris Doctor, 2019