Managing Attorney at Disability Rights California

Gabriela M. Torres was born and raised in San Diego, California, and is deeply committed to serving the community where she grew up. As the daughter of Mexican immigrants and the youngest of four children, Gabriela is proud to be a first-generation college graduate and the first in her family to attend law school.

Gabriela earned her Bachelor of Science in International Business from the University of San Francisco before going on to receive her Juris Doctor (JD) from California Western School of Law. She furthered her legal education with a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Environmental Law and Sustainability from Kingston University London. Gabriela’s passion for environmental law led her to live and work in Europe for nearly a decade, where she specialized in International Commercial Arbitration.

Gabriela's legal career is also marked by her dedication to advocating for students with disabilities. She represents disabled students in administrative hearings and federal district court, ensuring they receive the educational services and protections they are entitled to under the law. Whether advocating for appropriate accommodations in schools or ensuring compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Gabriela fights for the rights of students to receive a meaningful and equitable education.

After returning to San Diego, Gabriela combined her legal expertise and commitment to environmental protection with her deep love for her hometown. She has worked with organizations such as Surfrider, where she served as Policy Coordinator and was heavily involved in Clean Water Act litigation against the International Boundary and Water Commission (IBWC).

In addition to her legal career, Gabriela is a proud advocate for diversity and inclusion within the legal community. She actively supports the San Diego County Bar Association's Diversity Fellowship Program and is passionate about mentoring the next generation of legal professionals. Gabriela also volunteers her time to coach her high school’s Mock Trial team, helping students build confidence and skills for the future.

Gabriela is an alumna of the Academy of Our Lady of Peace in San Diego, where she first developed her passion for advocacy and public service. When she’s not working, Gabriela enjoys spending time with her family—her husband, four children, and their dog—while soaking up the beauty of San Diego. Though she’s still perfecting her skills, Gabriela is an avid surfer who embraces the waves (and the challenges) of the Pacific.

Gabriela’s journey, from growing up in Sherman Heights to becoming a legal advocate for the environment, education, and her community, reflects her lifelong dedication to making a positive impact in San Diego and beyond.