Ashley M. Wicks

Ashley Wicks concentrates her practice on labor and employment law and education law, with a significant focus on special education. She represents school districts, governmental entities, and individuals in both advisory and litigation matters. Ashley regularly counsels clients on matters including staff and student investigations, discrimination, retaliation, and harassment claims, FERPA compliance, Sunshine Law matters, and compliance with federal and state employment, education, and special education laws.

In the education and special education arena, Ashley works directly with administrators and special education teams to ensure compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and related state regulations. She defends and supports school districts through the IDEA and 504 process by attending meetings, advising on compliance matters, and assisting school districts in navigating complex legal issues that arise. Ashley also defends districts in response to state complaints, OCR complaints, and due process hearings, and represents clients in related state and federal court litigation.

Ashley has litigated matters involving alleged constitutional violations, Title VII, the Missouri Human Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, IDEA, and Section 504. She focuses on providing clear, direct advice and thorough written work product, while positioning her clients to resolve disputes efficiently and defensibly.

Ashley began her legal career with the Missouri Attorney General’s Office, where she served as an Assistant Attorney General in the Civil Litigation Division and the Employment Trial Section. In that role, she represented state agencies and officials in a wide range of civil litigation and employment matters. Her work included investigating claims, managing discovery, drafting and arguing motions, and defending the State in employment-related disputes. Through this experience, Ashley developed a strong foundation in personnel law and gained valuable experience working with agency leadership and human resources professionals to address complex workplace issues and mitigate legal risk.

Ashley earned her Juris Doctor from Saint Louis University School of Law. She also holds an Honors Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Anthropology from the University of Arkansas, where she represented the University as a Razorback Majorette.

Outside of her practice, Ashley enjoys spending time with her family and her puppy, Theo. She remains active in the twirling community as both a lifelong participant and coach, reflecting her continued connection to student activities, mentorship, and the performing arts.