“I recognized very early on in my career that the ISBA is an invaluable resource for the education and empowerment of young lawyers. I joined the ISBA in my first year of practice and immediately got involved. I was looking for a group of knowledgeable individuals to learn from and to grow with. The ISBA was the perfect choice.

This year I have the honor of serving on the ISBA Torts and Young Lawyers committee. I remember my first Annual Meeting. I was inspired by many members serving on our current Board of Governors and was excited to get to work. This experience has taught me many things about myself and this organization, and given me a new-found appreciation for how hard our leadership works to ensure the future success of the ISBA.

In my role as a committee member, I collaborated with the Young Lawyers Division to organize a CLE on mental health, a topic that I am deeply passionate about. On November 5, 2024, I will be moderating the “Mental Health 101: Strategies for Thriving, Not Just Surviving” CLE, presented by the ISBA Young Lawyers Division. In my role as the young lawyer liaison for the Torts committee, I ensured this CLE was made available to all members, not just new ones, because mental health is an issue facing all attorneys.

My involvement with the young lawyers of Illinois extends beyond the ISBA. I am an active member of the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association (ITLA) Young Lawyers Committee and was selected to speak at an ITLA webinar on Practice Tips for Young Lawyers in April 2024. I also published an article titled “The Death Star Deposition” for the ITLA Trial Journal, Summer 2024 issue. Additionally, I was asked to serve on the Young Lawyer Committee for the Women’s Bar Association of Illinois. Through these professional associations, I’ve gained invaluable insights into the unique challenges young lawyers face, as well as the importance of collaboration and shared knowledge. My involvement has reinforced my belief in the power of mentorship, community, and active participation in shaping the future of our profession through volunteer bar association work.

As a young trial lawyer, my leadership philosophy is grounded in hard work, advocacy, inclusivity, civility, the rule of law, and a deep commitment to the legal profession. Admitted to practice in 2023, I have already been sent out to trial seven times. Each of these cases involved complex medical malpractice actions. Most recently, in June 2024, I served as second chair in a trial that resulted in a $6.3 million verdict on behalf of a 56-year-old man who required a heart transplant due to an undiagnosed heart condition. My experience in the courtroom has taught me the importance of persistence, clear communication, and most importantly, standing up for others who rely on our profession. I believe that meaningful leadership comes from both bold vision and practical engagement.

In this role, I will bring the same energy and commitment to advancing the interests of lawyers within our organization. Illinois has a very diverse legal community, and it is important to engage attorneys from all over the state in the ISBA. By fostering active involvement, professional development, and mentorship opportunities, I aim to bridge the gap between experienced and emerging attorneys, between Cook and Collar County lawyers and downstate attorneys, creating a stronger, more dynamic bar association for all.

I also understand the importance of collaboration and inclusivity in leadership. Bringing diverse perspectives together is essential to any organization's success, and I will ensure that young lawyers feel empowered to contribute their ideas and fresh energy for the betterment of our bar.

As I run for Board of Governors under 37, my vision is clear: to amplify the voice, interests, and involvement of young lawyers within this organization. We are the future of the legal community, and I believe that the prosperity of lawyers in Illinois depends on the prosperity of the ISBA.

With a clear vision and a deep commitment to service, I am eager to contribute to the continued growth of this organization through a leadership role. It is essential that we ensure this association remains a thriving resource for future generations of lawyers. I am extremely fortunate that Clifford Law Offices encourages me to spend time and firm resources promoting the goals of the ISBA, and I look forward to earning the privilege to serve the members of the ISBA as we work together to meet the challenges facing our profession today and in the future.”

— Courtney A. Berlin