Professor Barris is a Visiting Assistant Professor with a teaching concentration in basic legal skills.  Prior to her 2008 arrival at Brandeis School of Law, she taught legal research and writing at Nova Southeastern University, in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, and the University of San Diego. In addition to legal research and writing, Professor Barris has taught international criminal law and travel law.  Before beginning her teaching career, Professor Barris practiced law in San Diego, specializing in creditor rights litigation.


Professor Barris earned her undergraduate degree from Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington (1988), and her law degree from the University of San Diego (1992).


Professor Barris' scholarship interests center on legal writing, law school teaching, and international criminal law. Her 2007 book, Understanding and Mastering the Bluebook: A Guide for Students and Practitioners, has met with tremendous success and a second edition will be released in Spring/Summer 2010. In addition, she has published various law review and journal articles, and made numerous presentations at regional and international conferences.