Mentorship Program Happy Hour Pairs Chicago Chapter Mentors & Mentees
The Federal Bar Association (FBA) Chicago Chapter officially launched its Raising the Bar Mentorship Program with a well-attended mentorship program happy hour on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at the Chicago Bar Association’s Winston & Strawn Presidents’ Room. Designed to connect law students and early-career attorneys with experienced professionals in the Chicagoland legal community, the program runs from Fall 2025 through Spring 2026. It represents a cornerstone of the Chapter’s commitment to fostering professional growth and collaboration.
2025 District Court Judges Meet Chicago Chapter Members
On September 11, 2025, the Federal Bar Association Chicago Chapter hosted a special lunchtime program titled “Meet the New District Court Judges.” Held at the Chicago Bar Association, the event provided attendees with an opportunity to hear firsthand from the 2025 district court judges of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois (NDIL).
2025 State of the Court Recap: Chief Judge Kendall Addresses NDIL
The Federal Bar Association Chicago Chapter hosted the 2025 State of the Court Address on Tuesday, July 8th, at the Chicago Bar Association, bringing together more than 90 attorneys, judges, and members of the legal community. Chief Judge Virginia M. Kendall delivered her first official report as Chief Judge of the Northern District of Illinois (NDIL), providing key updates on case statistics, community programs, and challenges facing the judiciary.
New NDIL Magistrate Judges Introduced at May 2025 FBA Event
The new Northern District of Illinois (NDIL) magistrate judges were formally introduced to the legal community on May 13, 2025, during a panel hosted by the Federal Bar Association Chicago Chapter. Held at the Chicago Bar Association’s Corboy Hall, the event featured a moderated discussion with four recently appointed United States Magistrate Judges for the Northern District of Illinois. The program covered topics relevant to federal practitioners, including settlement conference advocacy, management of discovery disputes, and expectations in civil and criminal proceedings. Edward W. Feldman of Miller Shakman Levine & Feldman LLP moderated the discussion. Attendees received CLE credit, and the event included a Q&A session to facilitate direct engagement between the judiciary and practitioners.
Hon. Robert Dow Shared Insights at Exclusive FBA Chicago Chapter Event
Hon. Robert Dow, former U.S. District Judge for the Northern District of Illinois and current Counselor to Chief Justice John Roberts, headlined an exclusive event hosted by the Federal Bar Association Chicago Chapter. The discussion, moderated by Sharon Desh, Partner at Winston & Strawn, provided attendees with a firsthand look at Judge Dow’s transition from the bench to the U.S. Supreme Court and the unique responsibilities of his role.