Ellen Swain is an experienced attorney specializing in taxation law, public service, and legal education. Her career began as a Judicial Law Clerk for the New Hampshire Superior Court, handling diverse legal issues like intellectual property disputes, criminal motions, and jury instructions. She then served as a Staff Attorney for the New Hampshire Public Defender, managing felony, misdemeanor, and juvenile cases, and litigating issues such as search and seizure, mental competency, and speedy trial rights.
Ellen developed her tax law expertise through roles as a Clinician in the Tax Appeals Assistance Program at the University of San Francisco, an Extern with the IRS Office of Chief Counsel, and a Legal Intern with the California Franchise Tax Board. She also served as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of California and chaired the Bar Association of San Francisco’s Section on Taxation.
Currently, Ellen is an Attorney IV at the California Franchise Tax Board, where she focuses on complex state and federal tax matters, multistate policies, and tax appeals. She previously served as Tax Counsel III at the Office of Tax Appeals, gaining further expertise in tax litigation.
Ellen is also a dedicated educator and mentor. She has worked with the Council on Legal Education Opportunity (CLEO), teaching law students skills in legal reasoning, briefing, and exam writing. Known for her analytical skills and commitment to public service, Ellen has built a career spanning over two decades as a leader in taxation law and legal education.