Tom Bahar: Rooted in the Community

By Rachel Barks

For a lifelong Joliet native, deep roots in the community do more than just provide a sense of familiarity, they can shape an entire perspective on practicing law and serving local clients. Growing up in the area offered an early exposure to a spectrum of diversity, laying a foundational framework of empathy and public service for Tom Bahar.

“I was the product of a Catholic grade school and junior high education which taught me morality, humility and empathy from a very early age,” Bahar said. “My Joliet Central High School education and involvement in its JROTC program furthered that development of humility and empathy and reinforced a commitment to public service and self-discipline.”

Even early working experiences outside the legal field provided invaluable lessons in human connection. Working the night shift at Home Cut Donuts during high school and college breaks brought interactions with people from all walks of life.

“There, I learned how to effectively communicate, and it taught me the importance of doing the honest and right thing even when no one is watching closely. I will never forget where I came from because it has played such a large role in who I am and how I interact with others to this day.”

Early Foundations and Finding a Voice

The path to a legal career was paved through early, impactful roles in both constituent services and victim advocacy. Serving as a Staff Intern in Washington, D.C. for U.S. Congressman Jerry Weller provided a look at handling community concerns on a macro scale. Working primarily in constituent services, the role involved fielding calls and crafting written responses regarding legislative interpretations.

“This taught me the fundamentals of legal research and the importance of plain language writing,” Bahar noted. “Again, I was exposed to the vast array of community concerns and interests not only from Joliet and Will County but from an entire U.S. Congressional District.”

The desire to transition from an advocate to a litigator solidified completely while working in the Will County State’s Attorney’s Victim/Witness Unit. Observing the inner workings of the area’s largest law firm sparked a hunger to step past a supportive role and dive directly into the courtroom.

While working in that role, Bahar realized he wanted to do more than just pass information along to prosecutors; he wanted to step into the courtroom and directly advocate for individuals themselves. This position offered the unique advantage of watching top Will County litigators in action daily before even attending law school, providing a firsthand masterclass in effective legal presentation and courtroom strategy.

Mastering the Courtroom

That courtroom exposure paid off during a distinguished 13-year tenure as an Assistant State’s Attorney. Handling a massive array of cases, ranging from DUIs to complex felonies, thefts, firearm situations, and crimes of violence, taught a definitive lesson regarding trial advocacy: thorough preparation is everything.

“I learned the importance of thoroughly prepping my cases for trial or hearing and completing my own research,” Bahar said. “I’ve never been satisfied with the answer to a question being, ‘Well, that’s just the way it’s always been done.’ I want to know why it is that way. I want to understand the reasoning behind the statutes, the caselaw, and the Supreme Court Rules. That lends significant credibility and persuasiveness to your arguments.”

This relentless work ethic proved vital in an unpredictable trial environment, where you will likely get burnt if you aren’t prepared.

Navigating Complex Financial Litigation

Six years of that prosecutorial career were dedicated to the highly specific world of civil asset forfeiture under the Illinois Controlled Substances, Cannabis Control, and Money Laundering Acts. These cases brought unique challenges, particularly when dealing with unrepresented individuals trying to find their footing in a complex system.

“One of the hardest parts is watching self-representing litigants struggle to figure out what to do in court and how to respond to various procedural requirements and discovery requests,” Bahar said. He highlighted the progress made by the Administrative Office of Illinois Courts in providing state-approved forms and limited instructions to give these individuals a fighting chance, alongside equitable relief options like hardship and innocent ownership hearings considered by trial court judges.

A Testament to Dedication

This long-standing dedication to the mission of the State’s Attorney’s office did not go unnoticed by those he worked with. Will County State’s Attorney James Glasgow commends Bahar for his unwavering dedication and perseverance; this support underscores a career built on consistent public service.

Collaborating with Law Enforcement

Beyond the courtroom walls, sharing knowledge with law enforcement professionals became a highly rewarding avenue of service. Training officers allowed for a collaborative exchange of ideas that directly impacted how cases were built from the ground up.

“I found it interesting hearing our police officers explain their interpretation of some of the traffic and DUI statutes and some of the caselaw that was issued by our reviewing courts, and to be able to answer questions based on those interpretations,” He said.

Bahar finds it fantastic to see many of those officers modify their on-the-road practices and the information they were including in their narrative police reports to pave the way for more robust cases and a higher likelihood of success in court.

Guided by Mentorship and Integrity

A successful career is rarely built in isolation, and Bahar credits his professional development to a willingness to learn from everyone around him, including judges and opposing counsel.

“It is difficult for me to say that I had one specific mentor,” Bahar reflected. “I always took advantage of opportunities to sit down with the Judges whom I appeared before. I also frequently took the time to speak with the attorneys who I battled it out with in court. I found that these attorneys were more than happy to share practice tips and talk about some of the pitfalls that they experienced as a young lawyer. I never wanted to make the same mistakes over and over again, and I used these opportunities to help develop my voice as an attorney.”

Among those who left a lasting impression are local attorneys Mike Fitzgerald and Steve Haney. Bahar explained that both of those attorneys push young attorneys to achieve and are always willing to offer guidance to help to think through cases from different perspectives. He added that they serve as terrific role models in civility and courtroom demeanor.

When looking toward the future generation of legal professionals, the ultimate piece of advice comes down to balancing advocacy with an unshakeable moral compass.

“As a prosecutor, I remained mindful that my duty was to seek justice rather than merely convict,” Bahar concluded. “An attorney should never let their desire to win cloud their judgment so as to affect their integrity or negatively affect their professional reputation. Our role as attorneys should always focus on achieving substantial justice while still providing zealous representation to our clients.”

Faith, Law, and Leadership: The Multi-Faceted Career of Karla Fiaoni

By Rachel Barks

Karla Fiaoni possesses the ability to see the justice system from every possible angle. From the high-stakes environment of the State’s Attorney’s Office to her tenure as a Chief of Police, she has been a pillar of strength and a voice for the vulnerable. Her career is not merely a collection of titles, but a testament to a life dedicated to integrity and the pursuit of “doing the right thing.”

In 1994, Fiaoni became a trailblazer as the first female Chief of Police in Cook County, one of only four in the entire state at the time.

“I hired two female officers as soon as possible and mentored them throughout my tenure,” Fiaoni recalls, noting with pride that those bonds remain today. This spirit of mentorship and advocacy has been a hallmark of her journey, extending from the police department to her long-standing work with domestic violence agencies and local pro bono legal assistance clinics.

“Having been on all sides of the Criminal Justice System, and having practiced law since 1989, I come to these cases with a realistic and practical perspective,” Fiaoni shares. After her contractual commitment in Chicago Heights, she chose to return to private practice to maintain her independence, focusing on criminal defense and aiding low-income women and children. Her practice became a place for those seeking a lawyer who understood the complexity of the law from the inside out.

While the legal landscape has shifted toward a digital-first era, Fiaoni remains “old school” at heart. Though she appreciates the efficiency of a Zoom call for convenient matters, she believes the core of the profession lies in human connection. “I always choose to appear in court in person,” she notes. “It helps the attorney-client relationship and betters the communication.”

Outside of the courtroom, Fiaoni’s legacy extends beyond her work as an attorney. Fiaoni is an author of two published books: An Illustration of Grace and Time, Talent and Treasure. A third book, Stop Chasing the Devil’s Shiny Object, is currently in the writing stage. Both books are self-published and are given away as part of her women’s ministry. Through her women’s ministry, Fiaoni connects with other women, particularly young women and teenage girls, to share her story and give them confidence, courage and hope.

Fiaoni views women’s ministry as a calling and vocation, and also views her career the same way, more than just a job. “My faith is something I carry with me 24/7,” she explains. “I like to believe we are all given the opportunity to serve in our vocations and community, and it’s just a matter of stopping the busy ‘rat race’ and taking the time to see the opportunity.”

“There is no doubt that Karla has saved the lives of many people as a Prosecutor, Chief of Police, Defense attorney and forerunner of advocating for victims of domestic abuse,” states Richard Albanese.

Her advice to the next generation of lawyers is as grounded as her practice: enter the field only if it is your passion and guard your reputation fiercely: “Always tell the truth, maintain your dignity and integrity and whenever possible—HAVE FUN!”

Fiaoni remains a “glass half-full” optimist, finding gratitude in everything from a major court victory to a great parking spot. Her wise and compassionate touch continues to leave a lasting print on the legal community and the lives of those she serves.

Dual Service: Andrew Sanchez, Public Defender & Major

By Rachel Barks

Merging his legal career with the discipline of a major in the Illinois Army National Guard, Andrew Sanchez brings a powerful blend of insight, rigor, and advocacy to every case. As a native of Will County, Sanchez’ journey to public defender came from many early life experiences, including observing the difficulties of the immigration process and discovering his true calling was within the courtroom.

A Personal Spark for Public Service

Sanchez’s initial drive toward law was ignited not in a courtroom, but by a personal family struggle with immigration. He recalls his mother, who was formerly undocumented, paying an attorney for years to renew her work permit without ever achieving residency. This experience created an early desire to help others navigate complicated legal systems.

“Originally, way back in the day, I only wanted to be a transactional attorney to help with immigration stuff,” Sanchez said.

Although his interests turned to criminal defense due to a positive experience working on high school mock trials, the idea of advocating for people in difficult positions continued to be a central theme throughout his career. His commitment to public service was strengthened while attending DePaul University through his involvement in an initiative to improve the graduation rate of minority men in college.

Balancing the Bar and National Guard

A distinctive element of Sanchez’s career is his dual commitment as an attorney and an officer in the Illinois Army National Guard, which he joined in September 2011. Now a major, he manages the intensive demands of both roles, finding them surprisingly complimentary.

“A lot of people ask me how I balance both, and in the weirdest way, they’re complimentary,” he said. “At least one week in a month, typically because I’d be in the guard, I would get pulled out of being a lawyer. I would work a different part of my brain when with the National Guard; this made me better when I would come back to my legal work.”

Both hats he wears have given him incredible opportunities to develop valuable people and leadership skills that he believes ultimately contribute to him being a better public defender. Additionally, his time in the military has allowed him to interact with numerous groups, thereby expanding his ability to listen attentively and gather critical information from clients.

Tackling Systemic Challenges in Will County

Working in the Will County courts since January 2017, Sanchez sees two major, connected challenges facing his clients: lack of funds and a lack of legal education/awareness.

Simple financial barriers, such as an inability to pay off tickets, can lead to cascading legal issues like a suspended driver’s license, preventing a person from getting to their job. He notes, however, that recent legal trends in Illinois, such as the introduction of the Temporary Visitor Driver’s License (TVDL) and changes to suspend driver’s licenses for certain unpaid tickets, have helped reduce the burden on many clients. The elimination of cash bail, or bond, has also been a big, recent change impacting his day-to-day practice. Building Trust and Serving the Individual

The foundation of Sanchez’s relationship with his clients is trust. Recognizing that many public defender clients come in with a “level of distrust” from prior negative experiences with attorneys, he consciously works to treat each person as an individual, not just a case file.

“They’re a person; this is someone in a bad spot, and I’m here to help them.” Sanchez said. “Every day, as best as I can, I give that person the attention that they need and deserve,” Sanchez said.

His core guiding principle comes back to what he witnessed with his mother’s immigration attorney. He strives to ensure he is never treating his client as just someone who is going to help pay the bills.

Advice for Aspiring Legal Professionals

To new attorneys and those considering public defense, Sanchez offers this powerful advice: He encourages new lawyers to embrace discomfort, recognizing that being outside your comfort zone is often where the best experiences are gained. “If you’re doing a trial, and you’re not nervous, you probably shouldn’t be doing the trial. Because the fact that you’re nervous means you still care about this person and the results,” he added.

A key principle that guides him is “Lead Your Ship,” from L. David Marquet’s Turn the Ship Around! Sanchez encourages professionals to take charge of their careers, prioritize professional development, and invest in learning for lasting success.

How a College Experience and a Well-Timed Poker Hand Defined Joel Murphy’s Career

By Rachel Barks

When Joel Murphy was an undergraduate at Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, he wasn’t studying case law, he was knee-deep in biology labs, majoring in Zoology and Spanish. His trajectory, however, took a sharp, personal turn after a run-in with the criminal justice system. That pivotal experience wasn’t a roadblock; it was a launchpad.

“I quickly realized that good counsel and guidance can make a big difference in people’s lives,” Murphy recalls. This experience prompted him to change his studies, switching his focus to Administration of Justice while keeping minors in Zoology and Spanish. This shift was driven by a belief that shapes his work today: “Good people do some dumb things, and I wanted to help them through what can be the scariest times of their lives.”

After graduating from the SIU School of Law in 2004, and getting his law license Murphy methodically built his base, then began his time at Tracy, Johnson & Wilson, where he encountered the full gamut of clients.

From car dealerships to landlords and got to see the cases from the prosecution and the victim’s angle. Under the tutelage of top-notch mentors such as Rich Vogel and Cory Lund, he spent seven years working with one of the county’s best-known criminal defense lawyers, Chuck Bretz, sharpening his skills.

The Unconventional Leap

In 2014, Murphy’s entrepreneurial spirit was fueled by an unlikely source: a successful poker tournament. Placing well gave him the capital and confidence to take the ultimate risk: opening his own firm.

Today, his practice focuses on Criminal Defense, DUI/Traffic, and, critically, Secretary of State proceedings aimed at restoring driving privileges. For Murphy, this work is essential to breaking the cycle of the criminal justice system. “As bad as DUIs are, unfortunately, it is one of those areas where you will find these ‘good people doing dumb things’—they are your friends, family members, and coworkers.”

Client-First Advocacy

What truly makes Murphy stand out is his commitment to his clients’ humanity. He takes pride in the way he communicates with and looks after his clients. He believes that they shouldn’t be treated like just a paycheck, and instead, feel that their lawyer genuinely cares about them, their lives and their well-being.

His clients recognize this quality in him. Some reviews on his website mention that he is the only lawyer they need on their contact list, that he helped them regain their freedom, and that he is very worthy of his 5-star ratings.

For young lawyers looking to take the leap into their own firm, Murphy offers candid advice: “Learn how to run a business and learn how to market, as there is nothing more rewarding than being your own boss.” He encourages faith in oneself and highlights the supportive nature of the local legal community.

Murphy’s community work is a significant part of his life. He’s a member of the Joliet Noon Lions Club, judges moot court competitions for his alma mater and is deeply involved with the Will County Bar Association, where he also enjoys interviewing candidates for the board of directors, and helping steer the association’s success.

When he’s not fighting for his clients, Murphy is an avid fan of golf, music (attending concerts across multiple states), and, of course, poker. But his greatest commitment is currently spending time with his beautiful wife and their two children, ages 7 and 5.

You can learn more about Joel Murphy’s practice at https://joelmurphylaw.com/.

Barbara Morton’s Approach to Family Law and Life

By Rachel Barks

Barbara Morton stands out as an attorney who prioritizes candor and unwavering commitment to her clients. As co-owner and managing partner of the Law Offices of Tedone & Morton P.C., Morton navigates the complex terrain of family and real estate law with a directness that clients ultimately come to appreciate, even when the truth is difficult to hear.

From Argument to Advocacy: A Lawyer’s Inception

Morton’s journey into law began with a childhood predisposition for debate. “I like to argue,” she said, recalling her father’s early suggestion that she pursue a legal career. While that initial spark was playful, her true interest ignited in law school.

“I took a constitutional law class, and I kind of just fell in love with the whole premise of the law and the Constitution,” she explained. This fascination led her to work for the ACLU during her legal studies, an experience she credits as a significant influence.

Despite her deep dive into constitutional law, Morton found her calling in the dynamic and often emotionally charged field of family law. “The practice of family law is ever-changing, never boring. It’s almost, some days, soap opera-like,” she said.

Career and Mentorship

Beyond her expertise in family law, which encompasses “every version of what family law, adoptions, paternity, divorce,” Morton also shoulders the responsibilities of a managing partner. This involves overseeing “all of the personnel, financial side of the business.”

With a diverse educational background that includes a communications degree from the University of Colorado and an MBA in accounting and finance, Morton brings a holistic perspective to her practice.

Morton attributes significant influence to her mentors. Her partner, Cosmo Tedone, instilled in her a profound “love of the law.” Angela Henderson served as a key mentor in family law, and Judge Kennison helped her “be a better lawyer.”

“Ms. Morton is a strong advocate for her clients and supports them emotionally and legally,” Tedone said.

Honesty as the Best Policy

When it comes to the common issues in family law, Morton’s approach is rooted in transparency, “I’m very honest with the client. I always lay out, this is what could happen. The best case scenario and the worst case scenario,” she said.

Morton doesn’t shy away from delivering difficult truths. While this directness might not always be what clients want to hear in the short term, Morton believes it ultimately serves their best interests.

“At the end of the day, they are the drivers. I can only lead them. I can tell them what the law is. I can lead them to water. I can’t make them drink. They’re the one who’s going to make the decision. They’re the ones who have to live with their decision. I can only advise them,” she added.

Balancing Demands and Giving Back

To manage the rigors of her demanding career, Morton prioritizes personal well-being and her family, which includes her husband who has been fighting cancer. She emphasizes the importance of personal time. She finds joy in running half-marathons and traveling to Europe to be exposed to different cultures.

An animal lover with three cats of her own, Morton dedicates her philanthropic efforts to animal welfare organizations such as the Will County Humane Society and Hopeful Tails Animal Rescue. Her deep involvement with the Will County Humane Society developed after adopting a cat with FIV from there.

Advice for Aspiring Lawyers and Life Lessons

For aspiring lawyers, Morton offers pragmatic advice: “Money is not the most important thing. Find an area of the law you enjoy, as you will be doing it for the rest of your career. Do not expect to know everything out of law school. Find a mentor.”

Looking back, Morton embraces a valuable life lesson: “Life is too short, enjoy each day like it is your last. All the money in the world doesn’t make a difference if you do not have your health.”

Barbara Morton’s career is a testament to the power of a straightforward approach, a deep understanding of the law, and an unwavering commitment to her clients’ long-term well-being. She exemplifies the dedicated professional who not only navigates the complexities of the legal system but also enriches the lives of those she serves, both human and animal.

For more information on Morton and her work, visit https://www.tedonemortonlaw.com/.

From 1.0 GPA to Justice: The Remarkable Journey of John Anderson

By Rachel Barks

John Anderson’s path to becoming a Justice of the Illinois Appellate Court is a testament to resilience, determination, and the transformative power of personal experience. His story, marked by early struggles and profound life events, underscores the human side of the judiciary and the potential for profound growth.

“I was a poor student in high school. I barely graduated; I had a 1.0 GPA,” he reveals.

However, a tragic event reshaped his trajectory: the murder of his uncle, and the killer being found not guilty by reason of insanity. This experience ignited a passion for law and a desire to understand the complexities of the justice system.

Justice Anderson’s educational journey is nothing short of remarkable. He earned a Bachelor of Science from Illinois State University, a Master of Science from the University of Illinois-Springfield, a Juris Doctor from what is now UIC, a Master of Business Administration from Notre Dame, and a Master of Laws from Duke Law School. He also experienced homelessness, living on a friend’s couch, after his parents lost their home to foreclosure. He credits this experience with teaching him, “empathy, humility, and the value of hard work.” His legal career, specializing in commercial and appellate litigation, saw him tackle challenging cases, including representing a bank in the aftermath of the Arthur Andersen collapse, recovering approximately $5 million for his client. “The case was challenging because the defendants asserted a massive array of affirmative defenses,” he recalls.

Justice Anderson acknowledges the profound influence of mentors, particularly Illinois Supreme Court Justice Tom Kilbride, “I was one of his first law clerks, and would not be a judge today but for him.” He also credits lawyers such as Rich Reizen, Dave Rownd, Dave Duffy, and Steve Rotunno.

Transitioning to the appellate court, Justice Anderson sees his role evolving significantly:

“As an appellate judge, my role in shaping legal precedent extends far beyond individual cases, influencing the broader legal landscape and ensuring consistency in the application of the law.”

He aims to bring a unique perspective, drawing on his experience as a trial judge to ensure fair and practical legal interpretations.

One of his key priorities is increasing transparency within the appellate court: “I would like to have more transparency on the appellate court, with lawyers and the general public having increased access to appellate court orders and other documents.”

“Justice Anderson and I started our Judicial careers on the same day in 2010. He presided over one of the more difficult Calls in Will County, and did it well. I am confident he will serve the people of the entire Third District with the same level of dedication,” said Judge Matthew Bertani of the Illinois 3rd District Appellate Court.

Justice Anderson is passionate about community service, particularly addressing homelessness and food security. While judicial ethics prevent him from engaging in pro bono legal work, he actively volunteers with organizations dedicated to these causes. During his time in private practice, he served on the board of directors for the Lawyer’s Trust Fund, where he helped raise and distribute approximately $40 million to legal aid organizations serving disadvantaged groups.

His advice to aspiring lawyers emphasizes integrity, strong writing, mentorship, and respect.

“Integrity is paramount. A lawyer’s reputation is built on honesty, reliability, and professionalism,” he noted.

He also stresses the importance of continuous learning and maintaining a work-life balance, finding solace in travel, writing, movies, and sports.

Justice Anderson’s journey is a powerful reminder that setbacks can be catalysts for extraordinary achievement. His commitment to justice, coupled with his personal experiences, shapes his approach to the law and his vision for a more transparent and accessible legal system.

Sonni Williams: A Trailblazer in the Legal Field

By Rachel Barks

Sonni Choi Williams, a prominent figure in the legal field, has carved a remarkable path, breaking barriers and inspiring countless individuals. Her journey, marked by resilience and determination, is a testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of one’s passions. Williams’ early aspirations didn’t align with a legal career. Initially drawn to the sciences, she pursued a biology major at the University of Iowa. However, as she delved deeper into the field, she realized her true calling lay elsewhere. Her love for reading and history led her to a major shift, ultimately paving the way for her legal journey.

A pivotal moment came during a year off, when she observed her parents’ interactions with an attorney. She noticed a lack of representation for individuals like them, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds with limited resources. This realization ignited a desire to make a difference, prompting her to pursue a law degree at Northern Illinois University.

Since then, Williams has excelled in the field of municipal law, serving as the in-house city attorney for the City of Lockport. Her diverse range of responsibilities includes real estate, contracts, litigation, and employment law. She has also held significant roles in the City of Peoria, where she gained invaluable experience in various legal areas, from criminal defense to civil litigation.

“I’m very fortunate to be in a community with city council members who get along, they cooperate with each other and they have the ultimate goal of improving the city, not only in economic development, but making it a viable, livable place for people,” said Williams. “It’s been just a blessing to be working for the city of Lockport for the last seven years.”

Williams’ career is marked by numerous achievements, including arguing cases before the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals and the Illinois Supreme Court. She has been instrumental in groundbreaking legal initiatives, such as the implementation of a chronic nuisance ordinance to address crime-ridden properties.

Throughout her career, Williams has been fortunate to have strong mentors who have guided and supported her. These mentors, including judges, experienced attorneys, and her husband, have played a crucial role in shaping her professional journey. Some of these mentors include Jim Murphy, Cliff Mitchell, Judge Vince Cornelius, and Justice Mary O’Brien.

“Sonni is a natural leader. She is tireless in her commitment to the legal profession, and she consistently brings an energy, momentum and vision to every endeavor she undertakes,”
Cornelius said.

Williams’s advice to young lawyers is to build strong connections, seek mentorship, and cultivate a supportive network. She emphasizes the importance of self-forgiveness, resilience, and maintaining mental well-being in a demanding profession. Her own experiences have taught her the value of kindness, respect, and integrity in building lasting relationships and achieving professional success.

“I always treat everyone with the same respect, regardless of what their position is, you know, whether they’re an attorney, whether they’re judges, whether they’re clerks or bailiffs, I treat everyone with respect,” Williams said. “I helped my mom clean restaurants when I was in high school late at night. And I know what it is like to do those labor intensive jobs; everyone has a role in our society and everyone deserves that respect.”

Williams’ story is an inspiration to aspiring lawyers, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. Her dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment to justice have made a significant impact on the legal field, and her legacy continues to inspire others to strive for excellence and make a positive difference in the world.

For more information on Williams and her work, visit www.cityoflockport.net.

First Will County Legal Opportunity Scholarship Recipient Completes Law School

By Rachel Barks

Adrian Guzman, the first recipient of the Will County Legal Opportunity Scholarship, has successfully completed law school. As a law student, Guzman obtained a temporary law license to gain practical experience through externships at the Will County Public Defender’s Office and the Illinois Innocence Project.

“I know as a young attorney I have a lot to learn. There’s quite a difference from being in the classroom versus being in the court,” Guzman said. “However, practicing in the criminal law area is something I am very excited about and eager to learn more about.”

Guzman’s journey to law school was not without its challenges. Struggling with a learning disability, he found school to be a difficult experience. However, a pivotal moment in seventh grade sparked a passion for law. While studying for the constitution test, Guzman became fascinated with the idea of protecting citizens’ rights and that those rights can be protected by becoming an attorney.

Throughout law school, Guzman actively engaged in various legal internships, externships, and experiences, including:

• Illinois Justice Corps (2019-2020)
• Spanish Community Center (2021)
• Spesia & Taylor (2022)
• Will County Public Defender’s Office (2023)
• Illinois Innocence Project (2024)

Will County Assistant Public Defender Kevin Blindauer worked with Guzman during his time with the Will County Public Defender’s Office as Guzman obtained his 711 license.

“Adrian has an ability to assess and pinpoint case issues quickly. As I watched him with clients, he listens with an ear to understand but also with compassion and patience,” Blindauer said. “Adrian is not shy about jumping into a matter and seeks out a challenge. Along with his ability to speak Spanish and confidence, Adrian will be an asset to a firm and his clients.”

Guzman is excited to embark on a career in criminal law. He is grateful for the opportunity to represent clients and learn from experienced attorneys.

Guzman was also honored with the Edward F. Diedrich Award, recognizing his commitment to protecting the civil rights of underprivileged communities. Additionally, he consistently made the Dean’s List throughout law school.

The Will County Legal Opportunity Scholarship has played a significant role in Guzman’s law school path. The scholarship provides financial support, guidance, and valuable connections within the legal community. Guzman expressed gratitude for the support he received from Spesia & Taylor, particularly Jacob E. Gancarczyk.

Guzman believes that the scholarship sends a powerful message about diversity in the legal field. As an upcoming Latino lawyer, Guzman is committed to making a positive impact on the community and advocating for the rights of all individuals.

“The best part of my experience at the public defender’s office is helping someone and being told ‘thank you’ afterwards. I can see my presence is of value to people; my goal was always to do meaningful work,” Guzman said. He finds great satisfaction in knowing that his work is making a difference, and will continue to make a difference.