Paula Casey facts for kids

Paula Jean Casey (born February 16, 1951) is an American lawyer. She is well-known for serving as the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas. This important role involves representing the U.S. government in legal matters. She held this position from 1993 to 2000.

Early Life and Education

Paula Casey was born on February 16, 1951. She grew up to become a very successful lawyer and educator.

College and Law School

She started her higher education at East Central University in Oklahoma. In 1973, she earned her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree there. Later, she decided to study law. She attended the University of Arkansas School of Law in Fayetteville. In 1977, she completed her legal studies and received her Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree. This degree is needed to become a lawyer.

A Career in Law and Teaching

Paula Casey has had a long and impressive career. She has worked both as a law professor and as a government lawyer.

Becoming a Law Professor

After finishing law school, Casey became a professor. From 1978 to 1993, she taught at the William H. Bowen School of Law. This school is part of the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. During this time, she also took on leadership roles. She served as an associate dean of the law school from 1986 to 1991.

Working with Senator Bumpers

Before becoming a U.S. Attorney, Casey gained experience in government. From 1991 to 1993, she worked for United States Senator Dale Bumpers. She was his Chief Counsel and Legislative Assistant. This meant she helped him with legal advice and creating new laws.

Serving as U.S. Attorney

In 1993, President Bill Clinton appointed Paula Casey as the United States Attorney. She was responsible for the Eastern District of Arkansas. A U.S. Attorney represents the federal government in court. They handle criminal cases and civil lawsuits. She served in this important role until 2000.

Return to Academia and Recognition

After her time as U.S. Attorney, Paula Casey returned to teaching law.

Back to the Classroom

In 2001, she rejoined the faculty at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock Law School. As a professor, she taught many different law subjects. These included lawyering skills, criminal procedure, and evidence. She also taught advanced litigation, family law, and property law.

Awards and Achievements

Paula Casey has received many awards for her work. In 2012, the university recognized her for outstanding teaching. She also received the FBI Meritorious Achievement Award in 1997. Many other state, federal, and local law enforcement agencies also honored her. She was the only U.S. Attorney to receive a special award. This award was from the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force. It recognized her successful work on a major case.

Leadership Roles at the University

On February 21, 2012, the William H. Bowen School of Law made an announcement. Professor Casey would become the interim dean of the school. She started this role on July 1, 2012. She retired from that position on June 30, 2013. From 2013 until 2016, she continued in leadership. She served as the interim Vice Provost for Research and Dean of the Graduate School.