40 Under Forty 2025

2025 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH

PRISCILLA CENTENO

AGE 32

FIRM Odelson, Murphey, Frazier & McGrath

LAW SCHOOL Depaul University College of Law

beyond her years. “

AREA(S) OF PRACTICE Municipal, township, school, labor and election law

Priscilla is certainly a lawyer

”

I t's taken Priscilla Centeno just four years to become the lead attorney representing multiple governmental entities in Illi- nois, serving as the village attorney for Park Forest, township at- torney for Rich Township and board attorney for Lyons School District 103. Holding these key positions is evidence that Cen- teno has earned the respect and trust of government officials. It's also proof that Centeno understands the nuances of mu- nicipal law and is a trusted advocate of her municipal clients. Centeno also possesses a deep understanding of Illinois elec- tion law, including handling matters before electoral boards and in the circuit and appeal courts. Arlene Al-Amin, clerk of Rich Township, has worked closely with Centeno on a range of legal matters. She says that Centeno routinely assists the township with the most complex legal is- sues, including matters related to the Open Meetings Act, Free- dom of Information Act, personnel questions and procedural guidance for public meetings. "Priscilla demonstrates exceptional wisdom, profession- alism and deep knowledge of township law," Al-Amin said. "Her expertise extends across municipal and labor law, making

her an invaluable resource to my office." Calvin Jordan, supervisor of Rich Township, said that Centeno has represented the township in forming agreements with other municipalities. And when it's time to defend the township, Cen- teno acts as a fierce advocate for the government body. "She takes an aggressive posture in defending the township and her efforts have saved precious dollars that have been used for services benefiting our citizens," Jordan said. "Her tactical defense work coupled with her knowledge of township and mu- nicipal law provided expert legal representation." Steven Laduzinsky, founder and owner of Laduzinsky & Asso- ciates, has worked with Centeno on complicated election cases that resulted in litigation before electoral boards. Centeno has also assisted Laduzinsky in handling administrative hearings for a local high school district. "Priscilla is certainly a lawyer beyond her years," Laduzinsky said. "Having been a teacher, being bilingual and having extraor- dinary skills, she has quickly become a leader in the election law field. She is already viewed as an outstanding litigator and au- thority in the Election Bar."

40 Under Forty 2025

CHICAGO LAWYER & CHICAGO DAILY LAW BULLETIN