Gabriela G. Kawiecki

Gabriela G. Kawiecki

Gabriela “Ellie” Kozlowski is a dedicated attorney whose legal practice focuses on labor and employment law and litigation. She has made a significant impact by representing both public and private sector employers in various labor and personnel-related matters. Her expertise extends to advising school districts, community colleges, and municipalities on a wide range of legal issues, ensuring that they navigate complex challenges effectively. Ellie is also known for her staunch defense of clients in state and federal courts, as well as before administrative bodies.

In her role as an attorney, Ellie’s favorite aspect is her ability to assist schools and colleges in making informed and sound decisions for their staff and students. Her strengths as an attorney are further demonstrated through her proficiency in conducting extensive legal research to address complex questions raised by her clients.

Before joining Robbins Schwartz, Ellie devoted her legal practice to labor and employment law and litigation, primarily representing plaintiffs.

Ellie’s passion for the legal field was inspired by her deep-rooted desire to make a positive impact on educational institutions. Although her initial career aspirations were to become a high school teacher and coach, she found her true calling in effecting change within the educational system through the avenue of law.

During her time in law school, Ellie graduated with a concentration in Trial Advocacy & Dispute Resolution. She stood out as a law student when she was awarded the second-best brief in the prestigious Moot Court Honors Program Herzog Competition. This challenging writing competition required students to research and write a Supreme Court Appellate brief, followed by presenting an oral argument. Her exceptional achievement in this competition led to her role as a teaching assistant during law school. In this capacity, she assisted fellow students in honing their writing, research, and argumentative skills, further solidifying her commitment to her legal education. Ellie continues to support aspiring law professionals through her role as an adjunct professor at the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law, where she diligently teaches BAR preparation courses.

Ellie’s life experiences, including living in Spain for a summer to complete her degree in Spanish, have enriched her perspective and contributed to her approach to her legal practice.

Outside her professional life, Ellie enjoys leisurely walks along the lakefront, teaching her cat new tricks, and exploring the world through her travels.

Education

• J.D., University of Illinois Chicago School of Law
• B.A., University of Dayton

Admitted to Practice

• United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois
• Supreme Court of Illinois

Organizations

• Chicago Bar Association

Recent Publications

• Contributing author, “Bargaining Implications of Statutory Leave Rights for Public Sector Employees,” State and Local Government Bargaining & Employment Law Committee Midwinter Meeting, American Bar Association