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.

Your Small Business and Community Business Ally

A trusted name within the greater Joliet area, Bryan Wellner’s practice has been spanning across multiple areas since November 2015 when he began practicing law and working at Mahoney, Silverman, & Cross, LLC.

Wellner concentrates in corporate and small business, local government, criminal and traffic law practice, and employment.

“Bryan is an all-around excellent attorney. He puts in the necessary work behind the scenes, so he is always prepared,” said Jordan Kielian, of The Wharrie Law Firm, P.C. “He also has a steady demeanor and handles himself and others well in difficult situations. When I recommend clients to Bryan, I know they are in great hands and I am confident they will be beyond satisfied with his representation. And that has been the case since he started practicing.”

Wellner’s family, who owns Wellner Construction Corp, was a motivating factor for him to attend law school, inspired by the dream of one day representing them when he got older.

Wellner’s passion for representing small and community businesses was jump-started by watching his own family run their business and be entrepreneurial. This has inspired him to be that for himself as an attorney and expand his business as much as he can, similar to how they did.

Wellner has many dreams and goals for the future of his career, including owning his own law firm one day.

“I want to be able to represent as many small businesses and help as many community businesses as I can,” said Wellner. “Then get to a point where I can help support other young attorneys and mentor them into having successful careers.”

Noting the mentorship Wellner has received at Mahoney, Silverman, & Cross, LLC from George Mahoney and David Silverman, he said they have been incredibly influential to his career, especially getting into the local government practice area which is their niche.

“They have helped expose me to those opportunities, and they’ve really encouraged me to dive deep into it, and now that I’m in it, to expand my practice, and have given me a ton of guidance and help in expanding it,” Wellner said.

Wellner recounts a fond memory for him where he was appointed his first municipal client, the City of Braidwood, a couple of years into his career. Never expecting to end up in local government law, this was a proud and exciting moment for him, representing an entire municipality.

Wellner is also involved in multiple organizations including the American Bar Association, Illinois State Bar Association, and Will County Bar Associations. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the Joliet Area Young Professionals, a division of the Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce, the Board of Directors for the Old Timers Baseball Association of Will County, and the Scholarship Committee for the American Italian Cultural Society in Crest Hill, Ill.

Originally from Minooka, Ill., Wellner always had the plan to work in the great Joliet area, “I absolutely love having the work I do overlap with the areas that I grew up in and where friends and family live,” Wellner said.

To learn more about Bryan Wellner and Mahoney, Silverman, & Cross, LLC., visit msclawfirm.com.