Elizabeth (Ellia) M. Thompson

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emthompson@Venable.com

Los Angeles, CA

T +1 310.229.9689

Ellia Thompson concentrates her practice on land use, planning and zoning regulations, government administrative law, and local housing laws. Ellia works on complicated real estate and land-use litigation cases, including representing landlords and property owners in various litigation matters. Her clients come to her for her extensive experience in land-use entitlements, with particular emphasis on zoning and subdivisions, government administrative law, community outreach, projects located in hillside and historical areas, and environmental compliance, especially in relation to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). She also has broad experience in environmental review processes, administrative proceedings, and land-use litigation.

In addition, Ellia has experience handling criminal defense for property owners who are charged with misdemeanors for failure to comply with certain property regulations, including fire code, building code, health, and housing violations.

Prior to attending law school, Ellia served as press secretary to Congresswoman Jane Harman and communications director to Congresswoman Louise Slaughter, chair of the powerful House Rules Committee. After September 11, 2001, Ellia also worked as the Democratic press secretary to the House Subcommittee on Terrorism and Homeland Security.

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Credentials

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Education

J.D. The George Washington University Law School 2005
B.A. English University of California at Los Angeles 2000

Bar Admissions

California
District of Columbia

Professional Memberships and Activities

Member, Board of Trustees, Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association (GLAZA)
Chair, Government Relations Committee, Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association (GLAZA)
Member, Valley Industry Commerce Association (VICA)
Member, Urban Land Institute (ULI)
Previous member, Economic Development Committee, Downtown Women’s Center (DWC)

Recognition

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Los Angeles Times, Inspirational Women Finalist, 2021
Los Angeles Business Journal
- Top Women Attorneys, 2020
- Most Influential Women Attorneys, 2018 – 2019
Super Lawyers
- Southern California, 2015 – 2023
- Rising Star, 2013 – 2014
CREW LA, Woman on the Rise, 2012

Community

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Pro Bono

Provided pro bono legal services to several U.S. military veterans, obtaining additional medical services and monetary awards for certain combat veterans suffering from past injuries