From the bustling academic halls of the Northeast to the courtrooms of Colorado, Sarah Schielke has carved out a reputation as a formidable force in criminal defense and civil rights law. Her journey, marked by academic excellence and a fierce commitment to justice, has positioned her as a champion for those wronged by the system.

Schielke’s roots trace back to Rochester, New York, where her early years laid the foundation for her future pursuits. Her academic prowess became evident at Middlebury College in Vermont, where she graduated magna cum laude with a B.A. in Psychology. This background in understanding human behavior would prove invaluable in her legal career, providing insight into the complexities of human actions and motivations.

Her trajectory led her to Boston University School of Law, where she attended on a full academic merit scholarship – a testament to her exceptional abilities. At law school, Schielke didn’t just excel in her studies; she took on the significant role of Managing Editor for the Boston University Law Review. This position honed her analytical skills and attention to detail, which would become hallmarks of her legal approach.

Post-graduation, Schielke made a bold move that would define her career path. Rather than following the well-trodden route to an established law firm, she packed up her life—and her dogs—and headed west to Colorado. There, she dared to open her own practice, focusing on criminal defense and civil rights law. This decision showcased Schielke’s entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to forging her path in the legal world.

Schielke’s unconventional approach and fierce advocacy have garnered significant recognition. In 2023, she was named one of USA Today’s Women of the Year, honoring “strong and resilient women who have been champions of change across the country.” This accolade was a fitting tribute to Schielke’s impactful work in the civil rights field.

Two cases stand out in Schielke’s impressive career. In 2021, she secured a record-breaking $3,000,000 settlement in the internationally publicized case of Karen Garner v. City of Loveland. Just a year later, she outdid herself by obtaining an even larger $7,000,000 settlement in the police tasing case of Michael Clark v. Idaho Springs. These landmark victories brought justice to her clients and sent a powerful message about accountability in law enforcement.

Schielke’s expertise extends beyond courtroom victories. She has made significant contributions to legal scholarship, particularly in DUI defense. Her work on two United States Supreme Court case amicus briefs has been widely recognized, earning her the DUIDLA’s “Badass Award” in 2021 – the organization’s highest honor. This accolade acknowledges her impact not only on civil rights but also on DUI defense.

Her reputation in DUI defense is further solidified by her consistent recognition as a Rising Stars SuperLawyer for DUI Defense from 2018 onwards. Schielke’s knowledge in this area is so respected that her material on Winning Marijuana DUIs has been published in the Texas DWI Manual, demonstrating her influence beyond her home state of Colorado.

Schielke’s commitment to advancing the DUI defense field is evident in her active participation in professional organizations. She serves on the Executive Committee and as President of the national DUI Defense Lawyers Association (DUIDLA), sharing her expertise and helping shape the future of DUI defense strategies.

Despite her demanding career, Schielke maintains an entire personal life. She is married with three children and a devoted dog owner with five canine companions. This balance between her professional achievements and personal life paints a picture of a well-rounded individual who brings passion and dedication to every aspect of her life.

Sarah Schielke’s career is a powerful example of how legal expertise and unwavering commitment to justice can affect real societal change. From her academic beginnings to her current status as a formidable civil rights attorney, Schielke continues challenging the status quo and fighting for those the system has wronged. Her work serves as a reminder of the vital role that dedicated, principled attorneys play in upholding the rights of individuals against powerful institutions.