The Multi-Faceted Career Of Laura Coates: Age, Biography, And Her Rise To CNN Chief Legal Analyst

The question of "how old is Laura Coates" is a common search query for fans and viewers of the prominent CNN Chief Legal Analyst, whose insightful and authoritative commentary has made her one of the most respected voices in American media. As of December 11, 2025, Laura Coates is 45 years old, a number that reflects a career already packed with significant achievements in law, justice, and broadcasting.

Her age, however, is just one facet of a compelling professional and personal story that spans from her early days as a federal prosecutor to her current role hosting her own nightly news discussion program. Coates’s journey is a powerful testament to the impact one can have by bridging the complex worlds of legal practice and public discourse.

Laura Coates: Complete Biography and Profile

Laura Gayle Coates has built a distinguished career on a foundation of rigorous legal experience and a commitment to justice, transitioning seamlessly into a dynamic media presence. Here is a complete look at her profile and key biographical details.

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• Full Name: Laura Gayle Coates
• Date of Birth: July 11, 1980
• Current Age (as of Dec 2025): 45 years old
• Place of Birth: Hartford, Connecticut (with ties to St. Paul, Minnesota)
• Parents: Norman and Martha Coates
• Husband: Dale Gordon (married circa 2010)
• Children: Two (Son, Adrian Gordon; Daughter, Sydney Gordon)
• Education:
  • Princeton University (B.A. in Public and International Affairs, 2001)
  • University of Minnesota Law School (J.D.)
• Primary Roles: CNN Anchor, Chief Legal Analyst, SiriusXM Radio Host, Author, Former Federal Prosecutor
• Notable Works: Book: *Just Pursuit: A Black Prosecutor's Fight for Fairness* (2022)
• Current CNN Show: *Laura Coates Live* (Premiered October 2023)

From Prosecutor to CNN Chief Legal Analyst: A Career Defined by Justice

Coates’s professional trajectory is unique, beginning in the courtroom and culminating in a pivotal role on national television. Her background as a legal practitioner provides an unparalleled depth to her media analysis, a factor that has cemented her status as a leading figure in legal commentary.

The foundation of her career was laid in the legal field. After earning her Juris Doctor (J.D.) from the University of Minnesota Law School, Coates served as a trial attorney in the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) during the administrations of both George W. Bush and Barack Obama.

During her time as a federal prosecutor, she handled a wide array of complex cases. Her work focused on the enforcement of voting rights and the prosecution of police misconduct, a challenging area of law that requires both legal acumen and a deep understanding of social dynamics.

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This firsthand experience in the federal justice system is what distinguishes her commentary today. She is able to analyze high-profile legal proceedings, such as the Donald Trump trials, with the perspective of someone who has actually stood in a courtroom and argued a case.

Coates transitioned to media, joining CNN as a legal analyst in 2016. Her clear, concise, and often passionate explanations of intricate legal matters quickly resonated with viewers. This led to her elevation to Chief Legal Analyst and, eventually, the host of her own show.

The launch of *Laura Coates Live* in October 2023 marked a significant milestone, solidifying her position as a primary anchor for the network. The show provides a platform for in-depth discussions on current events, legal battles, and social justice issues, leveraging her expertise to offer context beyond the headlines.

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The Impact of *Just Pursuit* and Her Activism Through Education

Beyond the television screen, Laura Coates has extended her influence through her critically acclaimed book, *Just Pursuit: A Black Prosecutor's Fight for Fairness*. Published in 2022, the memoir offers a searing, eye-opening account of her time as a prosecutor.

The book delves into the inherent tension between the idealistic principles of the law and the often-harsh realities of the courtroom. It is a powerful narrative that explores the biases and systemic issues she encountered, particularly as a Black woman navigating a predominantly white and male legal system.

Coates views her work, whether on CNN, SiriusXM, or in her writing, as a form of activism rooted in education. By demystifying the legal system and explaining complex statutes and precedents, she empowers the public to engage critically with issues of justice and fairness.

Her work with SiriusXM's Urban View channel further highlights this commitment, providing a unique space for dialogue on social, political, and legal matters that directly affect the urban community.

Laura Coates' Personal Life: Family and Washington D.C. Roots

While her professional life is highly visible, Coates maintains a degree of privacy regarding her family. She is married to Dale Gordon, and the couple resides in Washington, D.C., raising their two children, Adrian and Sydney.

The balance between a demanding career as a legal analyst and anchor, a national radio host, and a mother of two is a frequent topic of discussion in interviews. Coates has often spoken about the challenges and rewards of juggling these roles, emphasizing the importance of her family life.

Her family’s support has been a crucial element in her ability to navigate a career that requires constant attention to breaking news and complex legal developments. The ability to maintain this balance while delivering consistent, high-level analysis is part of what makes her a relatable and admired figure.

In summary, Laura Coates’s age of 45 is a mere footnote to a career that has already spanned federal prosecution, authorship, and a top-tier media role. Her work continues to shape public understanding of American law, making her one of the most essential voices in contemporary journalism.