Elizabeth Hecker's Appointment at Crowell & Moring Strengthens Education Litigation Practice

Elizabeth Hecker Joins Crowell & Moring

In a significant move that underscores Crowell & Moring's commitment to the education sector, Elizabeth Hecker, formerly a prominent attorney at the U.S. Department of Justice, has become part of their Litigation Group as senior counsel. Hecker brings a wealth of experience, having dedicated over twenty years to navigating the complex waters of federal appeals with a strong emphasis on educational law and civil rights.

A Veteran in Education-Related Litigation

Hecker has an impressive track record from her time as the acting deputy chief and special litigation counsel in the DOJ’s Civil Rights Division's Appellate Section. Over the last decade, she led numerous high-stakes cases that not only shaped legal precedents but also influenced education policies across the nation. Her remarkable portfolio includes drafting and filing more than fifty briefs with federal courts, where her expertise in Title IV, Title VI, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, and Title IX of the Education Amendments played a critical role in her success.

The breadth of her experience extends beyond appellate work; Hecker has also engaged in litigation in various federal district courts across the country. This extensive background equips her with a unique perspective on achieving positive outcomes for clients involved in education disputes, particularly under federal anti-discrimination laws.

Impact and Responsibilities at Crowell & Moring

In her new role at Crowell & Moring, Hecker is expected to focus on education litigation matters, which include defending educational institutions against enforcement actions and regulatory inquiries. As the federal government intensifies scrutiny on higher education institutions regarding compliance with anti-discrimination laws, Hecker’s expertise will be invaluable. She will guide clients in developing strategies to navigate these challenges while ensuring compliance with federal statutes.

Kent Goss, co-chair of Crowell & Moring's Litigation Group, stated, “Beth is a perfect fit for our higher education clients. She knows the statutes and their requirements and is uniquely qualified to assist clients, particularly at this time.” Her ability to craft compelling legal arguments and her extensive appellate writing background position her as a seasoned advocate for clients navigating the legal landscape in higher education.

Hecker’s responsibilities will also include advising clients on nuanced constitutional issues, including First Amendment rights and federalism, providing a comprehensive approach to education law challenges. Her experience as a policy counsel will further enrich the firm’s capabilities in consulting on legislation and regulatory matters.

Appreciating Her Transition

Expressing her enthusiasm about joining the firm, Hecker mentioned, “I am thrilled to join Crowell & Moring, which has a premier litigation bench and is known for its excellent work and collaborative culture.” She highlighted the importance of understanding the evolving legal landscape and the necessity for clients to be well-versed in the federal statutes that govern educational practices and policies.

While serving in the government, Hecker received numerous accolades, including Distinguished Service Awards and Special Commendation Awards, which reflect her dedication to civil rights and the promotion of educational equity.

Conclusion

Elizabeth Hecker’s addition to Crowell & Moring is poised to enhance the firm’s education practice significantly. Her extensive experience, coupled with her commitment to civil rights, positions her as a key asset in supporting the firm’s clients during a time when educational institutions face increasing regulatory scrutiny. With Hecker at the helm, clients can expect informed, strategic guidance as they navigate the complex intersection of education law and civil rights.