Jay D. Ellwanger

Jay D. Ellwanger is a civil rights and employment discrimination attorney who founded Ellwanger Henderson to honor his family’s legacy by advancing justice and equality. With decades of experience, Jay now focuses exclusively on representing plaintiffs in individual and class-wide discrimination and civil rights matters across Texas and beyond.

Jay earned his Bachelor of Arts with Special Honors and Juris Doctor from the University of Texas at Austin. While in law school, he was recognized as the top advocate of his graduating class, a national mock trial champion, and a member of the prestigious Order of Barristers. He has been an Adjunct Professor at UT Law School since 2003, teaching intensive trial skills and mentoring aspiring litigators.

Previously, Jay represented clients in intellectual property, employment, and commercial disputes at major law firms, including Jenkens & Gilchrist and DiNovo Price Ellwanger LLP. He transitioned to civil rights advocacy to focus on cases involving systemic injustice and workplace discrimination, leading high-impact litigation for individuals and marginalized groups.

Jay D. Ellwanger is a licensed attorney in both Texas and California. He is an active member of the American Bar Association, the State Bar of Texas, the College of the State Bar of Texas, and the Austin Bar Association. Throughout his legal career, he has earned multiple honors, including repeated recognition as a Texas Super Lawyer and the Austin Under 40 Award in the legal category.

Beyond the courtroom, Jay has demonstrated leadership in community organizations, having chaired the boards of Urban Roots and Wheat Ridge Ministries. He continues to serve as co-chair of Urban Roots’ capital campaign, exemplifying a career defined not only by legal excellence but also by a commitment to public service and systemic change. Jay stands out as a fierce advocate for civil rights, blending legal precision with purpose-driven advocacy.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Ellwanger Henderson
• Member, American Bar Association
• Member, State Bar of California
• Member, State Bar of Texas
• Member, College of the State Bar of Texas
• Member, Austin Bar Association
• Barrister, Robert W. Calvert chapter of the American Inns of Court

Licensed State

• Texas
• California

Education

• The University of Texas School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Texas
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges