Mary Tanagho Ross (she/her) is a senior staff attorney in the Immigrants’ Rights Project. She has expertise in federal court practice on behalf of immigrant children seeking asylum, including protection from removal, and issues related to Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS). Mary successfully represented children in federal litigation to protect their right to SIJS as a form of humanitarian relief. Mary is currently co-counsel in federal class action litigation to protect the right of unaccompanied immigrant children to seek asylum before U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Mary has worked internationally with individuals who have survived various forms of violence. As the daughter of immigrants, it is particularly meaningful to represent immigrant children. Mary loves working at Public Counsel because it combines her passion for international human rights and her desire to advocate for children. She is inspired and motivated by her clients’ stories of great challenge and strength.
Prior to working at Public Counsel, Mary worked at a civil rights and human rights law firm where she represented individuals in international human rights and civil rights litigation. Mary has been recognized in the Southern California Super Lawyers Rising Stars list and was recently named one of the “Top 40 under 40” attorneys in California by the Daily Journal.
Mary clerked for the U.S. District Court for the District of Nevada. Mary received her undergraduate degree from the University of Southern California, and a J.D. from UCLA School of Law. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring the beautiful outdoors of Los Angeles and traveling with her family.
