Leslie Gaines has over 15 years of experience in public interest law, with a background in representing vulnerable and marginalized populations. Leslie first represented disabled Social Security claimants for many years, and in 2011, she transitioned her practice area to representing disabled veterans and their survivors.
Her calling to help veterans was inspired by her dad’s 20 years of service in the U.S. Army and her mom’s background in the mental health field. Leslie has represented hundreds of veterans at the Regional Office and Board of Veterans’ Appeals.
Leslie attended law school at The Florida State University, graduating magna cum laude, Order of the Coif. Before law school, Leslie attended Florida A&M University, graduating summa cum laude.
Leslie serves on the Board of Directors for the National Organization of Veterans Advocates (NOVA). Leslie is the first African American to be elected to serve on NOVA’s Board of Directors in NOVA’s history. She is also Co-Chair of NOVA’s Mentorship Committee, and a member of NOVA’s Regulation Comment Committee.
In her spare time, Leslie enjoys spending time with her family and friends and playing with her dog.