About Elinor
Elinor Leary is a seasoned trial lawyer dedicated to protecting the rights of her clients and guiding them through some of the most difficult moments of their lives. She founded First Person Legal in 2025 and focuses her practice on complex personal injury and wrongful death cases, with a record of achieving significant verdicts and settlements for individuals and families facing life-altering harm.Elinor is known for her compassionate approach and unwavering advocacy. She takes the time to understand each client’s story, ensuring they feel supported while pursuing justice on their behalf. In the courtroom, she combines meticulous preparation with persuasive advocacy, earning the respect of judges, juries, and colleagues alike. Her work has been recognized by peers for both professional excellence and dedication to client service. Elinor’s inclusion in Best Lawyers reflects her commitment to achieving outstanding results while always prioritizing the care and trust of those she represents.
Elinor Leary is a seasoned trial lawyer dedicated to protecting the rights of her clients and guiding them through some of the most difficult moments of their lives. She founded First Person Legal in 2025 and focuses her practice on complex personal injury and wrongful death cases, with a record of achieving significant verdicts and settlements for individuals and families facing life-altering harm.
Professional Affiliations
Awards & Recognition
- Recognized: Personal Injury Litigation - Plaintiffs
- Recognized: Product Liability Litigation - Plaintiffs
- Practice Area: Construction Law
- Rated AV-Preeminent for Ethical Standards & Ability – Martindale-Hubbell
- Selected to the Northern California Super Lawyers Rising Stars List, 2011 - 2013
- Two settlements honored in California’s Top Settlements, The Recorder – Doe v. Roe Driver & Duenas v. Carter
- Selected by peers to The Best Lawyers in America – US News & World Report, 2016 - present
- Top 50: Women Northern California Super Lawyers
- Top 100: Northern California Super Lawyers
- Nominated for the State Bar of California President’s Pro Bono Service Award
- Nominated for the Jack Berman Award of Achievement
- Selected to the Northern California Super Lawyers List, 2014 - present– Top 5% of attorneys, as voted by peers
- American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys 10 Best Female Attorneys in California