2025 Criminal Law Seminar: Enforcement Trends, Trial Strategy & Judicial Insights
The 2025 criminal law seminar, hosted by the Federal Bar Association Chicago Chapter on April 10, convened legal professionals and thought leaders to discuss recent developments in federal criminal practice. The event featured strong attendance and a series of substantive panels led by federal judges, former U.S. Attorneys, and experienced practitioners. Held at DLA Piper in Chicago, the seminar addressed evolving DOJ policies, trial strategies, and sentencing considerations relevant to the Northern District of Illinois.
Attendees included judicial clerks, federal prosecutors, defense attorneys, and compliance professionals. Sessions provided insights and facilitated discussion on key challenges and best practices in the field. Feedback from participants was positive, including remarks from panelists. One longtime veteran of the U.S. Attorney’s Office described the seminar as "timely, to the point, and one of the best." Judge Sharon Johnson Coleman also expressed her appreciation for the program. Judges John Kness and John Blakey remained at the post-event reception to speak with attendees. The seminar concluded with a reception hosted by DLA Piper.
DLA Piper’s Matt Hiller delivers welcoming remarks for the 2025 Criminal Law Seminar
Defense Victories in High-Profile Federal Cases
The first panel reviewed three recent federal prosecutions that concluded with successful outcomes for the defense. Panelists discussed factors contributing to these results, including litigation strategies, evidentiary issues, and trial presentation.
The panel emphasized the importance of preparation, identification of procedural flaws, and advocacy techniques that resonated with juries. While the specific case details were not disclosed in the seminar notes, the broader context addressed how defense teams navigated high-stakes prosecutions and achieved favorable resolutions.
The discussion also touched on the impact of evolving policies from the Department of Justice and how courts are assessing prosecutorial practices in complex cases. Audience members found the session informative for understanding the dynamics of federal criminal defense in high-profile matters.
Matt Hiller moderates the first panel, featuring Mike Kelly and Nicholas Silverman while Joel Coen attends virtually.
Former U.S. Attorneys Reflect During Newsmakers Interview
This panel featured former U.S. Attorneys Zachary Fardon and John Lausch in a conversation about the changing landscape of federal prosecutions in the Northern District of Illinois. The discussion explored continuity and change in DOJ guidance, including charging policies and enforcement priorities.
Fardon and Lausch offered perspectives from their time as both line prosecutors and district leaders. They analyzed how policy memos reflect broader themes within the Department of Justice, and the ways in which those directives influence strategy and discretion at the local level. Their comments provided a framework for understanding how institutional values shape prosecutorial decisions.
During the session, Fardon recognized a veteran member of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in attendance, describing them as "an icon" of the district. This moment was noted by attendees as reflective of the collegial tone of the program and the continuity of public service within the office.
A View From the Bench Spotlights Trial and Sentencing Strategy
The judicial panel, composed of U.S. District Court Judges Sharon Johnson Coleman, John Kness, and John Blakey, addressed best practices in trial preparation and sentencing advocacy. Each judge offered practical observations drawn from their experience on the federal bench.
Judge Coleman discussed the role of allocution, emphasizing how a defendant’s statement can influence sentencing outcomes when delivered with authenticity and appropriate timing. Judges Kness and Blakey highlighted the importance of early preparation and clear presentation of legal and factual arguments. The panel addressed how character letters are received by the court and what factors weigh most heavily in sentencing deliberations.
The discussion was structured to assist practitioners in better aligning their advocacy with judicial expectations. Judges Blakey and Kness engaged with attendees following the panel during the reception, adding to the seminar’s atmosphere of professional exchange.
Insights and Impact from the 2025 Criminal Law Seminar
The 2025 criminal law seminar concluded with a strong affirmation of its relevance and value to professionals practicing federal criminal law. Featuring extensive dialogue on sentencing strategies, DOJ policy implementation, and judicial expectations, the program served as a comprehensive resource for legal education in the Northern District of Illinois.
The event garnered positive feedback from both speakers and attendees, reinforcing its effectiveness in delivering practical and timely insights. The seminar's structured discussions provided clarity on current federal enforcement priorities and litigation approaches. The presence of judicial clerks and early-career attorneys contributed to a collegial learning environment that fostered both mentorship and professional development.
The Federal Bar Association Chicago Chapter extends its appreciation to DLA Piper and Matt Hiller for graciously hosting the event, and to John, Jordan, and Lisa for their coordination of CLE programming and logistical support. The success of the 2025 criminal law seminar reflects the Chapter's continued commitment to providing high-quality legal education and supporting practitioners within the NDIL federal legal community.
Do you want to learn more about federal practice? The Federal Bar Association Chicago Chapter is continually planning timely events to keep our members up-to-date on the legal system. To stay informed on future CLEs and legal education opportunities, visit the FBA Chicago Chapter’s events page!
