More than 375 trial attorneys and Illinois judges were in attendance on the evening of October 16th as the Jury Verdict Reporter, a division of Chicago-based Law Bulletin Media, hosted its annual reception and awards for Trial Lawyer Excellence at RPM Events. Thirty-five professionals from both sides of the trial bar received individual Trial Lawyer Excellence awards in one of seventeen 2024 categories. Additionally, William J. Rogers and Bruce R. Pfaff were recognized with Lifetime Achievement awards for their body of trial work, leadership, mentoring and contributions to the legal community.
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A call for collaboration across the legal industry
Sonni Choi Williams, president of the Illinois State Bar Association, shares in her letter: “ Now more than ever, it ’ s incredibly important for legal organizations across Illinois to collaborate to further our shared goal of improving the administration of justice. ” Likewise, Nicky A. Boothe, dean of the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law, calls on the legal community to unite under a common mission. “ It is imperative for
PATRICK REGAN Chicago Daily Law Bulletin
lawyers to have a renewed commitment to the rule of law, and to explore targeted opportunities to col- laborate with each other and to educate the next generation of lawyers (both in and outside the classroom) about the critical importance of this shared goal, ” Boothe writes. Together, Williams, Boothe and other leading legal voices in Illinois form the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin ’ s 2025 Law Day Letters feature.
On this, the 68th annual Law Day, we examine “ The Constitution ’ s Promise: Out of Many, One. ” That theme of collaboration is reflected in the letters published here, collected from judges, court officials, association leaders and law school representatives. These experts share their views on a spectrum of issues in the legal industry, including the role of jurors as the ultimate collaborators; the value of working together to protect the rule of law and the Constitution; and the importance of building public trust in the judicial system.
Jurors deliver on Constitutional promise Mary Jane Theis Chief Justice, Illinois Supreme Court
Volunteers raise the bar
Don ’ t sit on the sidelines
Virginia M. Kendall Chief Judge, U.S. District Court, Northern District of Illinois
Aurelia Pucinski Justice, 1st District Appellate Court
“ Pro bono programs like these empower incarcerated and indigent people with tools to more wholly access our justice system. ”
“ For most members of the public, the jury trial process is shrouded in mystery and misconception. ”
“ No judge should ever have a preconceived idea about what the outcome should be. ”
This Law Day ’ s theme of “ The Constitution ’ s Promise: Out of Many, One ” and how people work together for the administration of justice is a great way to highlight a sometimes forgotten, but extremely important, part of our court system — jurors. The right to a jury trial is enshrined in both the United States and Illinois Constitutions and the opportunity to have one ’ s legal matter decided by a jury of their peers is a pillar of our judicial system. But for most members of the public, the jury trial process is shrouded in mystery and misconception. A jury summons is often viewed as an inconvenience rather than a privilege. Recently, the Illinois Judicial Conference appointed a Juror Experience Task Force to review how juries operate across the state and to recommend changes and improvements to our jury system. The Task Force identified three priorities: increasing juror pool diversity; reducing the burdens of jury service; and providing public education about the benefits of jury service. The Illinois Supreme Court has approved the Task Force ’ s Final Report and recommendations. The next step is implementing those recommendations statewide. To start, the judicial branch is adopting May 5-9 as Juror Appreciation Week. In addition to thanking jurors for their service, Juror Appreciation Week is also an opportunity to educate the public about the jury system and the importance of jurors. A social media campaign will be launched using the court ’ s channels to highlight interesting facts about jury service and dispel common misconceptions. We ask the legal community to join us in making this an annual event to stress the importance of jury service. It is the court ’ s way of recognizing and honoring the citizens who have been summoned to serve as well as those who have performed their civic duty in the past.
The Northern District of Illinois is one of the only district courts to maintain a separate trial bar. Many view its membership as a distinction of experience and prestige, noting it has raised the level of quality and professionalism in the district. But membership in the trial bar comes with responsibility and the duty to be available for assignment by the court to represent those who cannot afford counsel. Unique to our federal district is the Pro Bono Program. It is built upon volunteerism from the trial bar with assistance from a community law center. Through the dedication of these partners, we provide legal repre- sentation to indigent individuals and pro se prisoners. A judge recruits a trial bar member to represent a previously pro se civil litigant in a civil matter. The court then connects a recruited attorney with resources and access to a staff attorney through Uptown People ’ s Law Center. Established in 1988, the program has proven to be invaluable. For new lawyers, pro bono recruitment pro- vides the opportunity for trial and courtroom experience. For opposing counsel, litigating against a pro se individual can prove frustrating and time-consuming, so adding an able attorney often allows the parties to reach a fair outcome more expeditiously. Beyond recruitments, there are other ways trial bar members partner with the court. Some volunteer at the virtual Hibbler Help Desk, where pro se litigants consult with attorneys for free. The court also offers the Settlement Assistance Program, which matches pro se litigants with volunteer attorneys at settlement conferences. Thanks to trial bar volunteers, pro bono programs like these empower incarcerated and indigent people with tools to more wholly access our justice system. They allow the court to more efficiently adjudicate its caseload while attorneys hone their litigation and mediation skills in ways that serve the greater good.
I ’ m delighted to participate in the 2025 Law Bulletin Media celebration of Law Day. I ’ ll weigh in on one of my favorite topics: missed opportunities for our legal com- munity to collaborate. First, work with other state and local bar associations to find a good case to carve elected judges out of Citizens United. In the states that elect judges, those judges do not represent the voters in their district or community except in the broadest sense of representing the never-ending search for justice, fairness and truth. Judges cannot campaign on promises about platform issues. We basically say: “ Please vote for me because I will be a good judge. ” We cannot commit to positions on guns, abortion, elections, the cost of eggs: any issue that could be litigated is off limits in our campaigns. That is good since every case is unique and depends on the facts and law involved in that specific matter, and no judge should ever have a preconceived idea about what the outcome should be. We are not aldermen, or congressmen, or mayors. We do not make campaign promises on issues important to various voters. Yet, running for election for judge has become wor- ryingly expensive, relying on huge donations from special interests and attorneys who can raise or bundle large sums of money. This puts judicial candidates in the same fund- raising position as cause-specific candidates for other offices, but with a different unwritten and unspoken set of expectations, and Citizens United makes it impossible to tell where any mystery money is coming from. This is an unacceptable perversion of a free and independent judiciary and must be addressed. Second, provide pro bono assistance to civil appellate litigants. With more than 90,000 attorneys in Illinois, there must be some way to provide a match-up. Third, when you see a good judge getting grief, get your bar groups to say something to offset the damage. Don ’ t sit on the sidelines.
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Search for new solutions, be creative Timothy C. Evans Chief Judge, Cook County Circuit Court
Pledge to ensure accountability, transparency
Although as a judge I adjudicate disputes among citizens or corporate entities, the rule of law does not mean that judges rule the people. In our indirect democracy we elect our legislators, who craft our laws, and our executive, who enforces our laws. Yet, when it comes to applying the law to the evidence, that is reserved for the people much akin to a direct democracy. Judges collaborated well with juries for nearly 150 years. But the working relationship soured at the turn of the 20th century as landless citizens, freed slaves and women joined the jury pool. The legislature and judges began to criticize juries as too “ passionate ” and “ irrational. ” The jury ’ s power must be “ checked. ” Thus, the U.S. Supreme Court radically curtailed jury power in 1899. Soon thereafter, devices like summary judgment and directed verdict permitted judges to take cases from the jury. We may not be able return to such robust respect for the jury, but our constitutional heritage may still inform our practice. Knowing that these modern innovations arose from skepticism about inclusive jury pools might en- courage judges to hesitate to assume the role traditionally reserved for the jury. Indeed, Illinois disfavors summary judgment and directed verdict, and strongly defers to the jury. A judge ’ s deferential collaboration with the jury keeps faith with our founders ’ dream.
Mariyana T. Spyropoulos Clerk, Circuit Court of Cook County
“ Diversity and inclusion are integral to our mission. ”
“ We are nothing if we are not together. ”
As one of the largest unified court systems in the country, the Cook County Circuit Court plays a crucial role in administering justice. Through the collective efforts of our approximately 400 judges and 2,600 em- ployees, the court has implemented numerous reforms and initiatives aimed at improving fairness, accessibility and efficiency — with our programs often serving as models for other courts. Together, we work to improve access to justice for all. We have taken innovative approaches to justice by expanding problem-solving courts, such as our drug treatment, mental health and veterans ’ courts, as well as establishing restorative justice community courts. These specialized dockets address underlying issues like sub- stance abuse and mental health disorders, thus helping individuals reintegrate into society rather than repeatedly re-enter the criminal justice system. The circuit court has been a strong advocate for criminal justice reform. Our implementation of bail reform in 2017 not only reduced the court ’ s reliance on cash bail but paved the way for the Pretrial Fairness Act, which made Illinois the first state to eliminate cash bail completely. These efforts ensure individuals are not unfairly dis- enfranchised due to their socio-economic status. We also have designed creative ways to help litigants navigate difficult situations. One recent example is a program to help those ordered to seek out-patient treatment for mental health and other problems. The program allows cases to be heard in a single court calendar, rather than in separate divisions. Diversity and inclusion are integral to our mission. Our court has worked to ensure that judicial appointments and court staff reflect Cook County ’ s diversity, hiring and promoting talented individuals who are dedicated to building trust and confidence in our communities. Though we are proud of what we ’ ve accomplished, we know our work is not done. We are always searching for new solutions to enhance justice for all. We look to our partners in the private and public bar, other government agencies and the public to continue to help us make our courts work better for everyone. Judges must collaborate with juries Thomas More Donnelly Judge, Circuit Court of Cook County
The Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court is the front door to our justice system. It oversees more than 1,400 employees operating in a dozen courthouses across the county, takes the official record of all court hearings and handles the filing of more than 1 million civil and criminal cases a year. As clerk, I am prioritizing diverse and underserved residents who need assistance in navigating the justice system. I pledge to ensure the services are transparent, accountable and accessible. My priority is customer ser- vice. I ’ m eager to show the residents of Cook County a new, improved clerk ’ s office. I am enhancing that experience by creating customer service training for all employees. Additionally, we are working on rolling out an independent inspector general system to make sure employees follow the policies and ethics rules. We are also reviewing ways to improve our technology, increase access to records and instill accountability. We have also launched a customer service survey to hear from the public on what ’ s working and what is not. You can find the survey on our website at cookcountyclerkofcourt.org. It is my goal to bring this office into the 21st century to help people access their justice system. The clerk is responsible for making sure that every person who files, appears or steps through the door has equal access and opportunity to be serviced and heard, keeping in mind the diverse communities the office is obligated to serve. While it is the clerk ’ s privilege to do so, it is an ongoing task to improve and expand upon this mission and goal. If the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County fails one citizen, it fails every citizen, because we are nothing if we are not together.
Build on the success of problem-solving courts
Marcia M. Meis Director, Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts
“ PSCs have transformed how the justice system responds to eligible defendants. ”
If you have ever observed a problem-solving court (PSC) or participated in one as a litigant, you know the benefits of this innovative approach that provides tar- geted assistance for a variety of needs. Currently, Illinois has 122 PSCs consisting of drug courts, mental health courts, veterans ’ courts and DUI courts. Some juris- dictions have a hybrid court that combines two of these types of courts. Drug courts are the most common PSCs in Illinois. In rural areas, some counties work together to create a PSC that provides services to participants in multiple counties. One of the drug courts starting soon is a multi- county effort in Marshall, Putnam and Stark counties in the 10th Judicial Circuit. Pike County in the 8th Judicial Circuit is also forming a drug court. That will bring Illinois ’ total number of PSCs to 124. New PSCs go through a certification process to ensure they are utilizing best practices and following the Supreme Court Problem-Solving Court Standards. The current 122 PSCs are all certified. Initial certification is valid for three years. Courts may then apply to be recertified — con- tinuing a 3-year cycle. Many PSCs have been recertified once, with 14 having been recertified for a second time. Great indicators of success! PSC participants move through a phased system — generally five phases — where defendants work to im- prove their lives through treatment, skill building, re- lationship building and focusing in areas such as em- ployment, education and housing. The program cul- minates in a graduation ceremony where participant successes are celebrated. Under certain circumstances, participants may have their charges vacated and ex- punged. In this way, PSCs reduce recidivism and avoid incarceration — saving money and allowing defendants to contribute to their community. For those local jurisdictions fortunate enough to have them, PSCs have transformed how the justice system responds to eligible defendants. As national leaders in this realm, Illinois courts will continue to build on this success.
Advance the profession, rule of law Weeya B. Young President, Black Women Lawyers ’ Association of Greater Chicago
“ By embracing unity and diversity, bar associations and legal organizations can work together to build a more just and equitable legal system. ”
“ My most important and powerful coworkers are jurors. ”
As president of the Black Women Lawyers ’ Association of Greater Chicago (BWLA), I believe that effective col- laboration among legal organizations is essential to ful- filling the promise of our Constitution: “ Out of many, one. ” The U.S. Constitution envisions a society where diverse voices come together to form a unified whole, and the legal community must reflect this principle in its work. This year, I have prioritized connecting and collaborating with other organizations, including the Cook County Bar Association, Women ’ s Bar Association of Illinois, Hispanic Lawyers of Illinois, The Decalogue Society of Lawyers and
Inspired by John Locke ’ s declaration that in a democracy “ the people shall judge, ” our founders enshrined in the Constitution the right to trial by jury in criminal and civil cases. Thus, my most important and powerful coworkers are jurors. To collaborate with the jury well, I must know my place. Properly understood, the judiciary is bicameral, with the jury constituting the thoughtful and reflective upper house and the judge serving as the legal administrator of the lower house.
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Advocate for access to justice John C. Sciaccotta President, Chicago Bar Association
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respect and a focus on actionable solutions. Balancing different perspectives involves identifying core values and aligning on overarching objectives while respecting vary- ing approaches. By fostering a culture of inclusion, we ensure that all voices are heard and considered. Leadership from the legal community is essential in uniting diverse perspectives to promote justice and equality. Lawyers have a unique ability to shape policy, drive reform and advocate for systemic change, making their leadership critical to achieving the principle of “ out of many, one. ” Despite progress, missed opportunities remain. Greater collaboration is needed among Illinois legal organizations to address disparities in access to justice, strengthen pro bono efforts and support legislative reforms that promote equity. By working together, we can build a legal system that truly serves everyone.
the Black Men Lawyers ’ Association. When legal organizations come together — sharing resources, insights and strategies — we can better tackle systemic challenges in the ad- ministration of justice. This cooperative approach ensures that all voices, especially those of marginalized com- munities, are considered in decision-making processes. Mentorship and professional development programs also offer powerful ways to collaborate. By establishing cross-organizational mentorship networks, established at- torneys can provide guidance to our bright future — diverse new attorneys and law students. These initiatives foster a sense of community within the legal profession, ensuring that the next generation is prepared to continue advocating for justice. Additionally, legal organizations should work together to advocate for policies that advance the profession and the rule of law. When organizations unite to support leg- islation, judicial appointments or legal reforms, their collective impact is far greater than any individual group. BWL A ’ s work with diverse partner organizations on the Alliance of Bar Associations for Judicial Screening enables us to push for transformation that benefits all members of society. By embracing unity and diversity, bar associations and legal organizations can work together to build a more just and equitable legal system that honors the Constitution ’ s call for a nation of many that respects the rights of every individual. Collaboration is essential to advancement Cindy L. Medina-Cervantes President, Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois
“ Now, more than ever, the legal community must unite for the public good and defend our Constitution. ”
Since our founding in 1874, the Chicago Bar Association (CBA) has been committed to upholding the Constitution and the rule of law, ensuring equal access to justice and promoting judicial independence. Now, more than ever, the legal community must unite for the public good and defend our Constitution. Together, we can help to achieve the ideal of “ out of many, one. ” As one of the oldest, most respected and active metropolitan bar associations in the United States, the CBA proudly continues to convene attorneys, judges, law- makers and law students to advocate for access to justice and promote ethical standards within the legal profession. Through continuing legal education offerings, mentorship and pro-bono projects, we provide resources and op- portunities for attorneys to collaborate with colleagues and keep informed on the modern practice of law. Our judicial evaluation committee provides a vital public service by conducting judicial evaluations designed to inform the public and the courts about the qualifications, independence and integrity of judicial candidates. As lawyers, we have a responsibility to do all we can to ensure that the legal system remains fair, impartial and accountable to all individuals. The future of our democracy hangs in the balance and all of us in the legal community can play a part in this cause. In partnership and collaboration with the Chicago Bar Foundation and other bar associations, we can make an impact by advocating for change through legislation, supporting equal access to justice through pro bono service and lending our voices to strengthen our democracy. I hope this year ’ s Law Day theme inspires all of us to unite in bridging our differences to build a more perfect union together. Advance justice through collaboration Sarah F. King President, Women ’ s Bar Association of Illinois
Work together, find common ground Denise Baker-Seal President, Illinois Defense Counsel
“ Collaboration is vital in any volunteer organization and is especially beneficial in the legal community. ”
As the president of the Illinois Defense Counsel, col- laboration has always been an important tenet and goal of mine. Both personally and professionally, I often have drawn on the words of Helen Keller, “ Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much. ” None of the IDC ’ s programs, publications or events could occur without attorneys throughout Illinois working to- gether to share experiences, successes and even failures. Collaboration is vital in any volunteer organization and is especially beneficial in the legal community. I recently attended a seminar session on the value of collaboration among organizations. The concept was certainly not novel to me but it was a good reminder of how groups, even those with differing interests, can work together to find common ground and jointly advance shared interests and goals. Could we do better? We certainly can. Collaboration among attorneys (IDC members and non-members alike), the judiciary, Illinois legislature and other attorney or- ganizations can start with simple communication. Each of us is stronger if we open our arms to collaborating with others in the legal process and embrace it. While my term ends soon, I am confident that my successors will continue the process of communication and collaboration for the betterment of the legal profession.
“ Active listening, shared purpose and strong partnerships are vital to advancing our mission. ”
The Hispanic Lawyers of Illinois (HLAI) has been dedicated to empowering Hispanic attorneys and ad- vocating for justice. Since its formation in 1995, HLAI ’ s mission extends beyond professional development — we are deeply committed to serving the community, pro- moting fairness and increasing access to justice. Through one of our new initiates, the Response Net- work, we mobilize legal professionals to assist individuals facing urgent legal challenges, particularly in immigration, civil rights and other critical areas. In addition to our advocacy work, we provide con- tinuing legal education programs, mentorship and social events to support our members ’ growth and strengthen their presence in the legal community. Our charitable arm, HLAI Charities, focuses on fundraising for schol- arships, ensuring that the next generation of Hispanic attorneys has the support needed to pursue their legal careers. Collaboration is essential to advancing our mission. This year, HLAI has partnered with the Diversity Scholarship Foundation, Chicago Bar Association, Black Women ’ s Lawyers Association, Women ’ s Bar Association of Illinois and other bar organizations to create impactful pro- gramming, expand professional opportunities and foster inclusion within the legal field. By working together, we amplify our collective voice and ensure that Hispanic attorneys have the resources and support necessary to succeed. I am honored and proud to serve this growing or- ganization. Through HLAI, I have witnessed firsthand the power of mentorship, advocacy and collaboration in driving meaningful change. I have also learned that active listening, shared purpose and strong partnerships are vital to advancing our mission. As we continue to grow, I look forward to expanding our reach, deepening our alliances and ensuring that HLAI remains a pillar of support, leadership and opportunity for Hispanic lawyers and the communities we serve.
Equip judges with knowledge, skills
“ Leadership from the legal community is essential in uniting diverse perspectives to promote justice and equality. ”
Mary Colleen Roberts President, Illinois Judges Association
The Women ’ s Bar Association of Illinois (WBAI) is committed to improving the administration of justice by promoting diversity, equity and inclusion in the legal profession. Through mentorship programs, advocacy ini- tiatives and continuing legal education, we work to ensure that the legal system is accessible and fair for all. Our efforts include judicial evaluations, policy advocacy on issues affecting women and families and pro bono ini- tiatives that serve underrepresented communities. Collaboration is key to our success. Legal organizations best work together by building coalitions around shared goals, fostering open dialogue and actively engaging diverse stakeholders. WBAI partners with bar associations, law firms and community groups to advocate for policy changes, provide professional development and increase representation in leadership roles. Through these partnerships, we have learned that effective collaboration requires active listening, mutual
“ Preserving judicial independence is a cornerstone of the IJA's mission. ”
The Illinois Judges Association (IJA) plays a vital role in enhancing the administration of justice for people in Illinois. Our association is committed to promoting the principles of judicial excellence, fostering professional development and advancing education of judges and the public. Through its mission, the IJA ensures that judges across Illinois are equipped with the knowledge, skills and ethical foundation necessary to administer justice ef- fectively and impartially.
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A vision for bar collaboration Sonni Choi Williams President, Illinois State Bar Association
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Our service committees provide a particularly mean- ingful way to build relationships with the legal world and improve the administration of justice for all. Our service committees focus on Catholic social teachings, which are committed to building a just society, respecting human dignity and living lives of holiness amidst challenges of modern society. Most notable is the work of our restorative justice committee, which has developed into a robust service group with two main components: reconciliation and healing for those impacted by violence and conflict; and immigrant justice. Through these initiatives, the guild has fostered strong relationships with organizations such as Lawndale Chris- tian Legal Center, Precious Blood Ministry of Recon- ciliation and the Juvenile Justice Initiative, as well as the National Immigrant Justice Center, Illinois Community for Displaced Immigrants and Catherine ’ s Caring Cause. By staying true to the Catholic Church ’ s teachings on loving our neighbors as ourselves and putting the needs of the poor and vulnerable first, the guild ’ s identity as Catholic is not an impediment to collaboration, but rather, a unifying factor that fosters collaboration in the strive toward the goal of “ out of many, one. ” Strive to listen, take action Jeanne Marie Wrenn President, North Suburban Bar Association
A core focus of the IJA is judicial excellence. Through our many committees we facilitate programming and provide resources that enhance the proficiency and integrity of judges. An example of our dedication to professional development is seen in the excellent educational pro- gramming we provide to both the judiciary and the bar at the Illinois State Bar Association ’ s mid-year meeting. That programming addresses current legal issues and reinforces the principles integral to the justice system. The IJA actively fosters public confidence in an in- dependent judiciary. Recognizing the importance of trust in the legal system, the association engages in outreach efforts such as judge-led school programs to educate the public about the rule of law, the role and responsibilities of judges and the importance of the judiciary. These efforts not only inspire young students but also connect with parents, teachers and administrators, promoting transparency and bridging the gap between the judiciary and the community. Preserving judicial independence is a cornerstone of the I JA ’ s mission. The association remains vigilant against external pressures that might threaten impartiality. Through our unwavering dedication to these principles, the Illinois Judges Association contributes significantly to a fair and impartial court system. Its efforts ensure that justice is administered in a way that upholds the highest ideals of democracy and equality for all. Unite to stop hate crimes Anthony “ To n y ” M. Abou Ezzi President, Arab American Bar Association
“ We have established an online discussion community. ”
Now more than ever, it ’ s incredibly important for legal organizations across Illinois to collaborate to further our shared goal of improving the administration of justice. As the largest association of Illinois lawyers, the Illinois State Bar Association (ISBA) has been working to develop ways to strengthen its Affiliated Bar Program and bring together bar leaders to engage in a collaborative dialogue on issues of mutual importance. Thus far we have established a robust community of leaders from specialty affiliated bar associations in the Cook County area and are working on developing a community of leaders from rural affiliated bar associations across the state. Last fall, I convened a meeting of various leaders from specialty bar associations that are part of our Affiliated Bar Program. This group has met and collaborated twice since our initial meeting, with one of those meetings involving a thorough training session conducted by staff from the ABA Center for Bar Leadership. To encourage collaboration between meetings, we have established an online dis- cussion community for this group on the ISBA Central community platform. To build off the success of our specialty affiliated bar group, we are now working to build a community for the leaders of our rural affiliated bars. This work is being overseen by our recently established Rural Practice Sec- tion, which convened a focus group meeting with these bar leaders in February to discuss various ways for the ISBA to better collaborate with them. A second meeting is scheduled for April, and work is now underway to build an online discussion community for this group of bar leaders to continue their collaborative work together. To learn more about the ISBA ’ s Affiliated Bar Program, please visit isba.org/affiliatedbars. You ’ ll find information about the program, its application and a list of participating bar associations.
“ Our commitment to inclusivity is paramount to the administration of justice. ”
“ Leadership in the legal field is essential to fostering unity and strengthening democratic principles. ”
The American Bar Association ’ s theme for Law Day 2025 — “ The Constitution ’ s Promise: E Pluribus Unum: Out of Many, One ” — seems to be entirely relevant now more than ever. As president of the North Suburban Bar Association and the Celtic Legal Society, I can whole- heartedly say that both organizations are firmly com- mitted to the foundational premise for which this country was built, that from many voices from varied nations comes one people committed to the administration of justice for all. This topic strikes a chord within me, not only as a kid who grew up in the Rogers Park community where more than 60 languages are represented and spoken. Also, as a product of Jesuit education, wherein, one of the many bedrocks of their philosophy is instilling within students the desire to be men and women “ for and with ” others. Our commitment to inclusivity is paramount to the administration of justice and our ability to join forces to collaborate and achieve our common goals of access to justice and equity for all citizens. This year the NSBA is committed to hosting two days of service within our community. In March, we spent a day volunteering at Misericordia with its amazing residents. Undoubtedly, we received far more than we gave. In June, we will collaborate with BUILD Chicago for a day of service and unity in our fight against gun violence in our beloved city. Listening to different voices and interacting with in- dividuals with varying abilities and experiences different from our own opens our hearts and minds to aid us in understanding other ’ s perspectives. As members of the legal community, we should dedicate ourselves to being servant leaders in all that we do within the legal com- munity and society as a whole. We should strive to listen and take action to protect and enhance the advancement of all people regardless of creed, color, orientation, ability or social standing to ensure that from all of our many voices everyone has the chance to achieve their dreams and live a life filled with dignity and prosperity.
The Arab American Bar Association of Illinois (AABAR) is committed to strengthening the rule of law and advocating for the rights and well-being of Arab Americans in Illinois. As hate crimes and discrimination against our community continue to rise, our role as a bar association is more critical than ever in protecting Arab Americans, a com- munity that includes people of Christian, Muslim and Jewish faith. Collaboration among legal organizations that have shared values and engage in open dialogue is extremely important. AABAR has worked alongside bar associations, nonprofit organizations and state government to address hate crimes, judicial diversity and bring well-deserved recognition to the great contributions that Arab Americans bring to our communities. Through active listening, adaptability and a commitment to inclusivity, AABAR seeks to help identify common goals and bring together people of all faiths and backgrounds. The key is to focus on our shared values and interests, such as fairness, equality and access to justice, which far outweigh our differences, and come together in cel- ebration of our unique heritage while standing up to categorical discrimination. Leadership in the legal field is essential to fostering unity and strengthening democratic principles. Lawyers and judges play a unique role in shaping policies, advocating for minority groups and bridging societal divides. By championing justice and civic engagement and looking after the interest of all groups, the legal community helps fulfill the nation ’ s promise of “ out of many, one. ” Despite great progress, the Illinois legal community still has opportunities for further outreach and collaboration, particularly when it comes to mentoring our youth. Encouraging the next generation of students and young attorneys should be a primary focus of every lawyer and bar association, and this can best be accomplished by working together and affirming each other ’ s endeavors. AABAR actively supports the efforts of its fellow bar associations and launched our very first Arab American Bar Association Scholarship Foundation in 2025.
Foster relationships, spiritual growth Pamela M. Rubeo President, Catholic Lawyers Guild of Chicago
“ The guild ’ s identity as Catholic is not an impediment to collaboration, but rather, a unifying factor that fosters collaboration.
The mission of the Catholic Lawyers Guild of Chicago is rooted in three pillars: prayer, celebration and service. Each provides opportunities for the guild to connect and collaborate. For example, each fall, members of the legal community from all faith traditions join us at our annual Red Mass at Holy Name Cathedral to pray for all those responsible for the administration of justice. In the spring, we hold an annual Lenten Retreat that offers a framework for finding inner peace and spiritual growth. And, we have a monthly continuing legal ed- ucation program series ranging in topics from the meaning of Advent, to presidential immunity, to powerful Catholic women in the law.
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Mentor, lead by example Athena A. Farmakis President, Hellenic Bar Association of Illinois
Advocate for justice Sara M. Salger President, Illinois Trial Lawyers Association By embracing a collaborative mindset, we can bridge these gaps and leverage our collective strengths to address pressing issues like access to justice and legal innovation. As we strive for the “ out of many, one ” goal, let us remember that unity in purpose is not uniformity in thought, but rather a collection of our diverse perspectives working together toward a brighter future for all. program exemplifies this approach by pairing seasoned attorneys with newer lawyers to foster professional growth and ethical practice. I have also found that embracing technology responsibly can bridge divides and enhance our collective efficiency.
Maintain mutual respect, debate Thomas J. Miles Dean, University of Chicago Law School As society struggles to find commonality, those of us in the legal profession are in the fortuitous position of having at least one solid common goal to pursue. As lawyers, we took an oath to support the Constitution of the United States and uphold the law and the legal profession ’ s ethical standards. Now, more than ever, the legal profession must rely on that common goal as the foundation to balance different points of view. It is imperative for lawyers to have a renewed commitment to the rule of law, and to explore targeted opportunities to collaborate with each other and to educate the next generation of lawyers (both in and outside the classroom) about the critical importance of this shared goal. to the spread of misinformation and disinformation, making it more difficult to build trust among people generally. This undermines collective efforts to address societal challenges. The legal profession has not been immune to these complexities. Lawyers face pressure to align with certain ideological positions and may be targeted for their in- volvement in politically sensitive cases, putting their reputations and careers at risk. Societal challenges such as evolving immigration policies, financial concerns and concerns about the erosion of democratic norms have placed new demands on lawyers who must be equipped to deal with humanitarian issues while adhering to necessary legal and policy frameworks. These challenges make finding shared solutions an ongoing challenge.
“ We must also lead with conviction and by example as we mentor those who follow in our footsteps and seek role models. ”
The prominent ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle once said: “ Find the good. Seek the Unity. Ignore the divisions among us. ” Wise words for attorneys to follow both in and out of the courtroom. As a plaintiff ’ s personal injury attorney and president of the Hellenic Bar Association, I have learned to cultivate and appreciate the importance and art of effective com- munication. Whether settlement discussions are on the horizon, or an important bar association decision is on the table, productive communication is paramount and the cornerstone to resolving any impasse. There will always be differing opinions and ideas that cannot be avoided but finding the good and unity and ignoring the division usually leads me in the right direction. As attorneys in the courtroom, we not only have the privilege but the responsibility to be the voice for others, which also demands being a good listener. As we listen to those we represent, attorneys must learn to appreciate and comprehend various perspectives in order to zeal- ously advocate and represent our clients ’ best interests. Gaining this perspective and finding common ground with our adversaries enables us to effectively collaborate to resolve disputes while improving the administration of justice for all. As leaders in our respective communities, we must also lead with conviction and by example as we mentor those who follow in our footsteps and seek role models. It is essential that we promote professionalism and civility during our adversarial discourse and debate in order to preserve our relationships and integrity within our legal community. And when things veer off course, we must remember our Constitution ’ s promise and echo Aristotle ’ s words of wisdom to: Find the good. Seek the Unity. Ignore the divisions among us. Building unity in purpose Mark Palmer Chief Counsel, Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Professionalism
“ Engagement is the lifeblood of any association. ”
It is an honor to be the 71st president of the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association and only the third woman to have filled this position. Serving as ITLA president fills me with immense pride and gratitude. It ’ s a privilege to lead an organization dedicated to upholding justice and advo- cating for those who need it most. Leading one of the most prestigious trial lawyer as- sociations, my goal is to encourage young lawyers, es- pecially women, to get involved. I never fathomed I would have the privilege to serve as this group ’ s president when I attended my first ITLA seminar many years ago, but it all started with just showing up. Engagement is the lifeblood of any association. It requires vision, dedication and the ability to unite legal professionals around a common purpose: advocating for justice. Trial lawyers come from different backgrounds, each with their own experiences and viewpoints. An inclusive space must be created where everyone feels heard while maintaining focus on the core objectives. This requires active listening, fair representation and a commitment to finding common ground. I am committed to working closely with our mem- bership, other law associations and elected officials to ensure that fairness and accessibility within our legal system is upheld. The work can be incredibly difficult, emotionally taxing and stressful, but I am so proud of the work that we do. Together, we can strive to make a meaningful impact on behalf of individuals and communities across Illinois.
“ Our faculty expose students to contrasting views, confident in
students ’ abilities to think critically and choose their own paths. ”
Law Day ’ s theme of “ Out of many, one ” resonates with the approach to learning at the University of Chicago Law School. Like law students everywhere, our students learn the many ways in which our Constitution encourages multiple viewpoints. Most prominently, how the First Amendment protects the right to speech and stimulates a marketplace of ideas. In addition to learning about the “ m a n y, ” our students learn how law facilitates the “ one. ” The design of gov- ernment, such as federalism and the separation of powers, as well as the adversarial system in courts, strengthen the outcomes of our legal system. The University of Chicago similarly encourages a mul- tiplicity of viewpoints with the aim of reaching outstanding ideas and learning. The missions of the university are ambitious research and transformative education. We seek to accomplish this through open inquiry and the free expression of ideas. The university ’ s first president called academic freedom a “ principle [that] can neither now nor at any future time be called in question. ” Our commitment to free expression rests on a belief that the most impactful research and powerful teaching opportunity require the ability to pose any research question and to engage in a vigorous discussion of ideas. The law school prepares students to enter the legal profession where they will be advocates, problem-solvers and leaders. They develop rigorous analytical skills in a stimulating environment of multiple viewpoints, inter- disciplinary perspectives and persistent questioning. A single viewpoint or style of thought is not imposed. Instead, our faculty expose students to contrasting views, confident in students ’ abilities to think critically and choose their own paths. At times, dialogue turns difference into agreement. At other times, disagreement remains. Maintaining a mutual respect for colleagues and a shared commitment to the idea that debate and deliberation are how our legal system achieves “ out of many, one. ”
“ Unity in purpose is not uniformity in thought, but rather a collection of our diverse perspectives. ”
Uphold the rule of law Nicky A. Boothe Dean, University of Illinois Chicago School of Law
As chief counsel of the Illinois Supreme Court Com- mission on Professionalism, I ’ ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of collaboration in the legal pro- fession. The commission fosters professionalism, civility and integrity through our statewide mentoring program, courthouse trainings and innovative educational pro- gramming aimed at lawyers, judges and law students. These initiatives demand successful partnerships for success. Effective collaboration within the legal profession re- quires clear communication, shared objectives and mutual respect. My experience has taught me that collaboration is most fruitful when we actively listen, remain open to diverse perspectives and intentionally seek common ground. By thoughtfully balancing different viewpoints, we uncover shared goals that transcend individual interests and serve the broader purpose of joint goals. I ’ ve learned collaboration flourishes through trust- building and mentorship. Our statewide lawyer mentoring
“ It is imperative for lawyers to have a renewed commitment to the rule of law. ”
We face several societal complexities today, shaped by rapid changes in technology, globalization and current political landscapes. Differing opinions impact societal cohesion, making it harder to find common ground on critical issues. Social media and echo chambers contribute
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