Hon. John F. Kness: Insights from Federal Chambers Luncheon

On July 16, 2025, the Federal Bar Association Chicago Chapter welcomed Hon. John F. Kness for an exclusive Chambers Lunch at the Dirksen U.S. Courthouse. Open only to FBA member attorneys, this in-person event was limited to 12 participants, creating a rare opportunity for direct engagement with a sitting federal judge in a small, conversational setting.

Held in Judge Kness’s jury room on the 21st floor, the lunch provided a forum for discussion about judicial practice, courtroom preparation, and the broader legal profession. Attendees shared a catered meal from Inspiration Kitchen while hearing about Judge Kness’s varied career path, from law enforcement to federal service. The informal environment encouraged candid dialogue, allowing participants to gain insight into both the human and procedural aspects of federal litigation.

These member-exclusive lunches are designed to foster stronger connections between the bench and bar while giving practitioners access to perspectives that can inform their own practice. The conversation with Judge Kness offered a mix of professional reflection, practical guidance, and personal anecdotes that illustrated the depth of his legal and public service experience. This combination of accessibility and expertise underscored the value of events that bring federal judges and practicing attorneys together in an intimate format.

Professional Background of Hon. John F. Kness

Hon. John F. Kness was born in Chicago, Illinois, in 1969. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Northwestern University in 1991 and his Juris Doctor from Northwestern University School of Law, now the Pritzker School of Law, in 2003. His career reflects a blend of public service, private practice, and academic leadership that shaped his approach to the bench.

Before attending law school, Judge Kness served as a patrol officer for the Oak Park Police Department from 1998 to 2000. Following graduation, he entered private practice in Chicago and later clerked for Hon. William H. Pryor Jr. of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit. He then returned to private practice before joining the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Illinois in 2009.

As an Assistant U.S. Attorney, Judge Kness gained experience in multiple sections, including National Security and Cybercrimes, Narcotics, and General Crimes. From 2016 to 2020, he served as General Counsel of the College of DuPage, overseeing legal matters for Illinois’s second-largest institution of higher education. Nominated by President Donald J. Trump in 2019 to succeed Judge Samuel Der-Yeghiayan, Judge Kness was confirmed by the Senate on February 12, 2020, and received his commission on February 18, 2020.

Hon. John F. Kness Chambers Luncheon Highlights

The Chambers Lunch provided a rare opportunity for attorneys to hear firsthand about the responsibilities and decision-making processes of a U.S. District Judge. Judge Kness discussed the importance of preparation in federal litigation, emphasizing that attorneys who thoroughly understand their case and anticipate opposing arguments tend to be most effective in court. He also spoke about professionalism, noting that civility between counsel benefits clients and fosters more productive proceedings.

Participants explored topics such as judicial expectations during hearings, how judges approach case management, and the factors that contribute to effective advocacy. Judge Kness reflected on his time as both a prosecutor and general counsel, offering practical insights into the diverse legal skills that can serve attorneys well at any stage in their careers.

The small group format encouraged a conversational exchange, allowing attendees to ask questions about trial practice, legal writing, and managing complex litigation. The event also provided a behind-the-scenes look at the day-to-day work of a federal judge, from ruling on motions to conducting settlement conferences. These discussions highlighted the value of understanding both substantive law and courtroom procedure when appearing before the federal bench.

Value of Member-Exclusive Engagements Through the FBA Chicago Chapter

The FBA Chicago Chapter’s Chambers Lunch series is designed to build connections between the judiciary and the legal community while offering attorneys access to perspectives not easily gained in larger public forums. The session with Hon. John F. Kness demonstrated how such events can provide both immediate takeaways and long-term professional benefits.

Attendees left with a deeper understanding of the considerations that guide judicial decision-making and the expectations judges have of advocates. They also gained insight into the broader role of a district court judge in managing cases efficiently, encouraging settlement when appropriate, and ensuring fair process for all litigants.

By keeping attendance small, these gatherings create an environment where candid, in-depth discussion can take place. For FBA members, the opportunity to learn directly from experienced jurists like Judge Kness reinforces the association’s mission to strengthen the federal legal system through dialogue, education, and professional development. Events like this continue to be a cornerstone of the Chapter’s programming, fostering mutual respect and shared purpose between the bench and bar.

To stay in the loop with future opportunities, check out the Federal Bar Association Chicago Chapter’s upcoming events.