Raised in the Midwood neighborhood of Brooklyn, Ellen Chaitin was destined for a legal career—at least according to her parents, who proudly noted her "argumentative skills" from an early age. They kvelled (beamed with pride!) when she graduated from the University of California, Hastings College of the Law, in 1973. 

That same year, she co-authored the first law review article advocating for the expansion of equal rights protections to gays and lesbians, and co-taught one of the nation's first “Women and the Law” classes at Hastings.

Judge Chaitin created and led the California Superior Court’s Mentor Court Diversion Program—an educational initiative for young individuals accused of selling small amounts of drugs. For this pioneering work, Judge Chaitin received special recognition from both the California State Assembly and the San Francisco Board of Supervisors.

After more than 20 years of service on the San Francisco Superior Court bench, she retired in 2012, but continued her work as a visiting judge.

As a presiding judge in San Francisco’s Dependency Court, Judge Chaitin frequently heard from HealthRIGHT 360 clients—women who overcame addiction, learned parenting skills, and were reunited with their children. Moved by their stories, she toured HealthRIGHT 360 programs and became a passionate supporter of its mission. Her dedication led her to serve three terms on the Board of Directors and three more as Vice-Chair of the Foundation Board. Today, she remains one of the organization’s most committed advocates.

Judge Chaitin is also a prolific writer and commentator, contributing regularly to the San Francisco Chronicle, San Francisco Standard, Mission Local, and J Weekly, on the public on issues such as substance use disorders, homelessness, and criminal justice reform.

Ellen is married to renowned San Francisco criminal defense attorney V.Roy Lefcourt. Together, they are a respected force in legal and civic circles, often sought out by political candidates and aspiring public servants. Their children, Adam and Juliet, continue the family’s legacy of service and advocacy—bringing much naches  (parental joy!) and making a positive impact on their communities.