Laura Coates Bio, CNN, Age, Family, Husband, Net Worth, Salary in 2025

Laura Coates is a distinguished American attorney, legal analyst, author, and television host, best known for her prominent role as CNN’s chief legal analyst and anchor. Renowned for her insightful legal commentary and engaging presence, Coates has become a trusted voice in national conversations on justice, civil rights, and contemporary legal issues.

Quick Facts

Full Name	Laura Gayle Coates
Nickname	Laura
Profession	Attorney, Legal Analyst, Author, CNN Anchor
Birth Date	July 11, 1980
Age	45 (as of October 2025)
Birth Place	Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA
Nationality	American
Famous For	Legal Analysis, Hosting CNN Tonight
Known For	Chief Legal Analyst at CNN
Ethnicity	African-American
Zodiac Sign	Cancer
Height & Weight	5 ft 4 in (163 cm), approx. 60 kg (132 lbs)
Hair Color	Black
Eye Color	Brown
Education	Princeton University (B.A.), University of Minnesota Law School (J.D.)
Religion	Christian
Marital Status/Spouse	Married (Husband: Name undisclosed)
Children	2
Relatives	Private
Hobbies	Writing, Reading, Community Service
Employer/Organization	CNN
Years Active	2005–present
Net Worth (Estimated)	$2–3 million (2025)

Early Life & Education

Laura Coates was born on July 11, 1980, in Saint Paul, Minnesota. Raised in a supportive and academically driven family, she developed a passion for justice and advocacy at a young age. Coates attended Princeton University, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree, before pursuing a Juris Doctor at the University of Minnesota Law School. Her early interests in social justice and public speaking laid the groundwork for her future legal and media career.

Career Journey

Early Legal Career

Coates began her professional journey as an associate attorney in private practice, specializing in intellectual property and civil litigation. Her sharp legal mind and dedication to justice quickly set her apart.

Federal Prosecutor

Served as a trial attorney in the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice.
Prosecuted cases involving voting rights, police misconduct, and discrimination.
Later became an Assistant United States Attorney for the District of Columbia, handling high-profile cases.

Media & CNN Career

Joined CNN in 2016 as a legal analyst, quickly rising to become the network’s Chief Legal Analyst.
Hosts “CNN Tonight with Laura Coates,” providing analysis on major legal and political stories.
Frequently appears on national radio, including her own show, “The Laura Coates Show” on SiriusXM.
Authored books including “Just Pursuit: A Black Prosecutor’s Fight for Fairness.”

Recent Activity & Achievements

Featured commentator on high-profile trials and Supreme Court decisions.
Recognized for making complex legal issues accessible to a broad audience.

Watch: Laura Coates on CNN Discussing Legal Issues

Personal Life

Laura Coates is married, though she keeps her husband’s identity private. The couple shares two children and resides in Washington, D.C. Coates is known for her dedication to her family and her advocacy for work-life balance. She enjoys reading, writing, and participating in community outreach programs.

Awards & Achievements

Named to The Root 100 list of most influential African Americans.
Recipient of multiple journalism and legal commentary awards.
Honored for her commitment to civil rights and social justice.

Physical Statistics

Height: 5 ft 4 in (163 cm)
Weight: Approximately 60 kg (132 lbs)
Eye Color: Brown
Hair Color: Black
Sexuality: Straight

Quotes

“The law is not just a set of rules. It’s a living promise to protect the rights of all.”
“Justice is not a destination—it’s a journey we must all take together.”
“My goal is to make complicated legal issues understandable for everyone.”

Controversies

Laura Coates has largely steered clear of major controversies. However, she has occasionally faced criticism for her outspoken views on justice reform and policing, reflecting the polarized nature of public discourse on these topics. Coates continues to advocate for transparency and fairness in the legal system.

Favorites

Book: “To Kill a Mockingbird”
Movie: “A Few Good Men”
Food: Soul food classics
Color: Blue
Hobby: Writing and community volunteering

Salary & Net Worth

As of 2025, Laura Coates’s estimated net worth is between $2 million and $3 million. Her annual salary from CNN reportedly ranges from $200,000 to $400,000, reflecting her seniority and expertise. Additional income comes from book royalties, speaking engagements, and radio hosting.

Interesting Facts

Laura Coates once considered a career in teaching before pursuing law.
She is a frequent guest lecturer at major universities.
Coates has written op-eds for major national publications.
She is passionate about mentoring young lawyers and students.

Social Media Links

Frequently Asked Questions

How old is Laura Coates?
Laura Coates is 45 years old as of October 2025.
What is Laura Coates’s role at CNN?
She is CNN’s chief legal analyst and anchor of “CNN Tonight with Laura Coates.”
Is Laura Coates married?
Yes, Laura Coates is married and has two children, but she keeps her husband’s identity private.
What is Laura Coates’s net worth?
Her estimated net worth is between $2 million and $3 million in 2025.
What books has Laura Coates written?
She is the author of “Just Pursuit: A Black Prosecutor’s Fight for Fairness.”
Where did Laura Coates go to college?
She attended Princeton University (B.A.) and the University of Minnesota Law School (J.D.).

Conclusion

Laura Coates’s journey from a passionate law student in Minnesota to a leading legal analyst at CNN is a testament to her expertise, integrity, and commitment to justice. Her influence reaches beyond television, inspiring countless individuals to better understand the law and its impact on society. If you found this biography insightful, share it with friends and colleagues to spread the word about Laura Coates’s remarkable career.

Sources: CNN, The Root, Washington Post, NPR, Princeton University, University of Minnesota Law School, SiriusXM