Sara Chimene-Weiss is a dedicated advocate for democratic values and a Counsel at Protect Democracy, where she plays a vital role in safeguarding and upholding democracy. Her primary focus is on litigating cases involving individuals targeted by anti-democratic disinformation. With a solid commitment to accountability and justice, she tirelessly works to expose and counteract efforts that undermine the democratic process. Her work involves forging partnerships with like-minded organizations, engaging in strategic advocacy, and undertaking local, state, and federal litigation.

 

Sara's career history and legal background have provided her with a solid foundation in civil rights and constitutional law, enabling her to contribute to the cause of justice significantly.

 

Before her role at Protect Democracy, she was an Assistant Federal Public Defender in the Capital Habeas Unit of the District of Arizona. She provided legal representation to individuals facing the death penalty in this capacity. Her responsibilities included conducting thorough investigations, extensive legal research, persuasive writing, and presenting compelling arguments in court. Sara worked diligently to ensure that each client received fair and just treatment under the law.

 

Sara's passion for law and dedication to justice was further cultivated as a law clerk to a federal district court judge. This experience allowed her to witness firsthand the profound impact of judicial decisions on individuals' lives. It broadened her perspective, honed her legal understanding, and provided invaluable insights into the complexities of the judicial process.

 

In terms of her academic background, her journey reflects her unwavering pursuit of excellence in law and civil rights advocacy. She completed her undergraduate studies at Brown University, where her commitment to justice and social equity flourished. The interdisciplinary nature of her education at Brown fostered a well-rounded perspective and a deep appreciation for diverse voices in shaping democratic societies.

 

Sara went on to earn her Juris Doctor degree from Columbia Law School, where she further developed her legal skills and explored her passion for public interest litigation—her time at Columbia equipped her with essential abilities in legal research, analysis, and persuasive writing, which have proven indispensable in her tireless efforts to defend democracy.