Our Professionalism Spotlight series highlights Illinois legal professionals who demonstrate the ideals of professionalism in their careers and a commitment to equitable, efficient, and effective justice.
In this Professionalism Spotlight, we spoke to Judith (Judy) Conway, an attorney at Cooney & Conway LLP in Chicago. Judy represents victims of mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, and other asbestos-related diseases across the country. She also represents victims of serious personal injury and wrongful death.
Judy has received several awards for her legal work, including the Illinois State Bar Association Young Lawyer of the Year Award in 2024.
How do you remain civil in tense situations?
First, I always take a deep breath. Second, I remember that this is my job, and the best way to represent my clients and myself is always with a level head.
I remember that I won’t win every battle/motion/ruling along the life of a case, but I keep my eye on the end result.
If all else fails, I ask another attorney to join me if I’m expecting it to be particularly difficult or tense and some additional support would help me.
What is an attorney’s role in furthering public confidence in the rule of law?
Public confidence in the rule of law, lawyers, and our justice system is essential to their foundations.
It is imperative that attorneys promote and fight to ensure equal access to justice for all litigants, not just those with deep pockets.
All attorneys should be working to ensure that anyone is able to seek justice in the court system to right a wrong that they’ve suffered.
What is the biggest challenge impacting lawyers today?
I think the increase in virtual interactions is putting a big strain on lawyers, from both the perspectives of civility and mental health.
The practice of law changed exponentially with the advent of COVID-19, and, as interactions between attorneys have increasingly become virtual, it is important that lawyers remember civility and professionalism as essential components of their practice.
It’s easy to shoot off an email in a heated moment or misread the intention of virtual communication. When in doubt, take a breather and come back to it, pick up the phone, or ask for a meeting in person.
As workplaces have become virtual, there has been a decrease in community among lawyers, as well as a blurred line between work and home. Lawyers today should ensure they are protecting their mental health, setting boundaries, and taking care of themselves given the increasingly virtual and remote aspects of work.
What do you do for fun?
I love to play racket sports (tennis, paddle, and pickleball), walk my dog, and play with my niece and nephew!
Our Professionalism Spotlight recognizes legal professionals throughout Illinois who are admired for their professionalism and civility. Check out more interviews here.
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