After obtaining a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Rutgers University, Ebony L. Riley began her legal education at Seton Hall University School of Law. While in law school, Ebony was Vice President of the Black Law Student Association and a student member of the Association of Black Women Lawyers of New Jersey. She also served as Judicial Intern to United State Magistrate Judge Michael A. Shipp, District of New Jersey. Upon receiving her J.D., Ebony worked as a law clerk for The Honorable Dennis V. Nieves, J.S.C., Superior Court of New Jersey, Middlesex County. While serving as a law clerk, Ebony became a certified mediator for the State of New Jersey and mediated various cases in the Superior Court.