Dana Nessel is an American attorney and politician serving as the Attorney General of Michigan.
She made history as the state’s first openly LGBTQ officeholder and is widely recognized for her work in civil rights, consumer protection, and public safety.
Quick Facts
- Full Name: Dana Michelle Nessel
- Stage Name: Dana Nessel
- Born: April 19, 1969
- Age: 57 years old (as of 2026)
- Birthplace: West Bloomfield Township, Michigan, United States
- Nationality: American
- Occupation: Attorney, Politician
- Height: Unknown
- Parent: Martin Nessel (father), Sandra Nessel (mother)
- Siblings: Unknown
- Spouse: Alanna Maguire
- Children: Alex Nessel, Zach Nessel
- Relationship: Married
- Net Worth: $3 million
Early Life And Education
Dana Nessel was born on April 19, 1969, in West Bloomfield Township, Michigan. She is 56 years old. Her parents are Martin Nessel and Sandra Nessel. She was raised in a Jewish household and is of white ethnicity.
She graduated from West Bloomfield High School in 1987, then earned her Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Michigan. She went on to obtain a Juris Doctor degree from Wayne State University Law School in 1994.
Career
Dana Nessel began her legal career as an assistant prosecutor in the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office, where she handled major criminal cases, including homicides and sexual assaults.
After more than a decade in that role, she started her law practice focusing on criminal defense and civil rights. She co-founded the Fair Michigan Justice Project, which investigates and prosecutes hate crimes against the LGBTQ community.
In 2018, she was elected Attorney General of Michigan and took office in 2019. She has since led efforts to combat consumer fraud, environmental violations, and corruption, while also standing firmly for LGBTQ rights and civil liberties.
Awards and Nominations
- Champion of Justice Award – State Bar of Michigan
- Named among Michigan Lawyers Weekly’s Women in the Law
- Multiple honors from civil rights and LGBTQ organizations
Social Media
- Twitter handle: @dananessel
Personal Life
Dana Nessel is married to Alanna Maguire. The couple has twin sons named Alex Nessel and Zach Nessel. She is openly lesbian and was the first openly gay person elected to statewide office in Michigan. Her height is not publicly disclosed.
Net Worth
Dana Nessel has an estimated net worth of $3 million. Her income comes mainly from her salary as Michigan’s Attorney General, along with earnings from her private law practice before entering public office. She may also receive revenue from speaking engagements and book royalties.