An Exciting New Addition to Our Team

Cook, Barkett, Ponder & Wolz is proud to announce the addition of attorney Leslie Hazel to the firm.

Hazel earned her Juris Doctorate from Saint Louis University School of Law in 2013, graduating with honors and placing in the top 30% of her class. Throughout her academic journey, Leslie demonstrated a commitment to excellence, receiving the Dean Select Scholarship and actively participating in organizations such as the Women’s Law Students Association and the Public Interest Law Group.

Prior to joining Cook, Barkett, Ponder, & Wolz, Leslie served as an Assistant Federal Public Defender at the Federal Public Defender’s office, representing indigent defendants facing federal charges in the Eastern District of Missouri. Her experience also includes a significant tenure as a District Defender at the Missouri State Public Defender’s office, where she managed a team of attorneys, investigators, and support staff while handling a diverse caseload, including complex criminal cases.

 

“We are excited to welcome Leslie to our firm. Her academic achievements, professional experience, and unwavering commitment to legal advocacy make her an ideal fit for our team,” said attorney J. Michael Ponder.

Learn More About Our New Hire

Click below to read more about Leslie’s education, experience, and unique value she brings to the firm.