Laura Essay is originally from Elkhorn, Nebraska. Laura received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Nebraska Wesleyan University, and graduated with highest distinction in 2006.

Following graduation, Laura enrolled in the University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Law where she received the Martin N. Erck Memorial Scholarship. While in law school, Laura received CALI Excellence for the Future Awards for attaining the highest overall grades in Advanced Legal Research and Pretrial Litigation. She was also actively involved as the Program Coordinator for the Community Legal Education Program. Laura received her J.D. degree in May of 2009.

After law school, Laura served as the Director of Community Relations for the 2010 Special Olympics USA National Games. She joined the Knudsen Law Firm in August of 2010. Laura is licensed to practice law in the U.S. District Court of Nebraska and is a member of the Nebraska State Bar Association. Laura is also licensed to practice law in the State of Colorado. In her free time, Laura enjoys traveling with her husband, running with her dog, and reading.