Phoebe Wilson Couzins (September 8, 1842 – December 6, 1913) was one of the first female lawyers in the United States. She was the second woman to serve as a licensed attorney in Missouri and the third or fourth to be a licensed attorney in the United States. She was the first woman admitted to the Missouri and Utah bars, and was also admitted to the Kansas and Dakota Territory bars. She was the first female appointed to the U.S. Marshal service. After her career in law she played an active part in the Suffrage movement. Early life Couzins was born to Adaline and John E.D. Couzins. John Couzins was the chief of police during the Civil War in St. Louis, Missouri. In 1884 he was appointed U.S. marshal of the Eastern District of Missouri by President Chester Arthur. Her mother was active in charity work and volunteered as a nurse. During the American Civil War, both Phoebe and Adaline helped organize the Western Sanitary Commission, which offered medical aid to wounded soldiers in places without hospitals. During St Louis's 1849 cholera epidemic, both Adaline and John lead relief efforts. Adaline also actively contributed to the movement for women's suffrage. Phoebe and Adaline were both members of the St. Louis Woman Suffrage Association, where Phoebe drew attention as a public speaker. Inspired by Professor John Krum, Couzins submitted an application to study law at the new Washington University in St. Louis. Her application was accepted by all sixteen members of the Application board, and her historic acceptance opened the gates for women to study law in Washington University. In 1869, Couzins began her studies at the university's law school, and earned her L.L.B degree in 1871, as one of only nine people in her class. Couzins became the first woman in the United States to graduate from a law school. She was also the first female graduate of Washington University. At her graduation a banquet was held in her honor. Couzins was licensed to practice law in the federal courts, Missouri, Arkansas, Utah, and Kansas. However, she chose a career in public speaking. Career Even prior to beginning her studies, she was the Missouri delegate to the American Equal Rights Association meeting in New York. She established a practice in St. Louis, and was admitted to the bar in four states. Couzins was described as a riveting orator and lectured