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 Hannah R. Lamore, a partner at Mahoney, Silverman & Cross, LLC in Joliet, Ill. Hannah concentrates her practice in municipal law and civil litigation.
Hannah is an active member of several bar associations. She is appointed to the Illinois State Bar Association Civil Practice and Procedures Section Council and serves as the Chair of the Young Lawyers Division. Hannah is involved with the Will County Bar Association and she is a past President of the Will County Women’s Bar Association.
Hannah graduated from the University of Illinois College of Law.
How do you remain civil in tense situations?
To remain civil in tense situations, I try to maintain perspective. I understand that this may be the only contact my client has had with the justice system and recognize that I am likely to see opposing counsel in the courtroom on another day.
Perspective also includes knowing when not to engage. In particularly tense situations, I think of advice that one of my mentors shared: “It’s a good day to write the letter, but not a good day to send it.”
It doesn’t apply to every situation — sometimes that letter has to be sent — but the tension in a lot of situations can be diffused by waiting a day to further engage.
What is an attorney’s role in furthering public confidence in the rule of law?
I would remind attorneys of the oath we took when we were admitted to practice. Among other affirmations, we swore to “faithfully discharge the duties of the office of attorney and counselor at law to the best of [our] ability” (705 ILCS 205/4).
If we uphold our oath by being prepared, making well-reasoned arguments, and challenging unjust rulings, then we should be instilling public confidence in the rule of law. More can and should be done, but the role of an attorney cannot be denied.
What do you think is the biggest challenge impacting lawyers today?
I think the biggest challenge impacting lawyers today is the advancement in technology, from online legal services verging on the unauthorized practice of law to artificial intelligence “learning” how to be us.
Per the Rules of Professional Conduct, an Illinois attorney is to maintain technological competence and, as these advancements continue, it will continue to be a challenge to remain competent. Attorneys must take advantage of available resources, both in learning about the technology (through continuing legal education) and in defining its appropriate use (through advocacy for the profession).
What do you do for fun?
For fun, I spend time with my husband and two-year old daughter. When I’m not chasing her, I am reading — including leading multiple bar association book clubs — or engaging in other relaxing activities, such as completing a 1,000-piece puzzle or building the latest Lego creation (a Lego typewriter sits on the bookcase in my office).
Our Professionalism Spotlight recognizes legal professionals throughout Illinois who are admired for their professionalism and civility. Check out more interviews here.
Professionalism Spotlight: Janaan Hashim, Amal Law Group, LLC
Professionalism Spotlight: Katherine Shank, CEO/Executive Director of Legal Aid Chicago