Our Professionalism Spotlight series highlights Illinois legal professionals who demonstrate the ideals of professionalism and a commitment to equitable, efficient, and effective justice.
In this Professionalism Spotlight, we spoke to Janaan Hashim, an attorney at Amal Law Group, the first law firm in the nation founded by six Muslim women, all born, raised, and educated in the U.S.
Janaan primarily practices in civil rights matters focusing on employment discrimination involving the ADA, ADEA, and Title VII issues and their Illinois counterparts. She previously served as an Assistant Appellate Defender for the State of Illinois and in private practice.
She has also represented clients in post-conviction relief so people who had an encounter with law enforcement can move on with their lives.
Janaan was a recipient of the 2024 Chicago Bar Association Vanguard Award.
How do you remain civil in tense situations?
Because the nature of our industry is a tinderbox of tense situations, I’ve learned to expect and prepare for them and always try to rise to the occasion to diffuse such situations.
I found that taking a step back, particularly in the heat of the moment, and seeing the bigger picture is very useful. This reset allows me to reassess the situation with a clearer mind rather than getting sucked into a downward spiral, especially if it’s a tit-for-tat situation. I’ve also found that taking a deep breath, or several, brings a sense of calm and refocus.
What is an attorney’s role in furthering public confidence in the rule of law?
Attorneys play a significant role in furthering public confidence in the rule of law because, for the average person, we’re on the front line, the “first responders” so to speak. People naturally turn to attorneys to understand the rule of law and would likely follow our lead.
If people see us showing them understanding, empathy, and knowledge coupled with integrity, this will lead them to see the rule of law as something that benefits them and society, even if it means they can’t get what they want.
If they see us as money-focused scoundrels willing to speak half-truths with indifference, then they won’t have confidence in the rule of law, nor respect it or us.
What do you think is the biggest challenge impacting lawyers today?
Honestly, taking time for themselves. We’re in a service industry in which there are myriad demands on many fronts, whether it’s from the client, the court, our colleagues, our staff, or elsewhere. In meeting these demands we can easily set aside taking care of ourselves, whether physically, emotionally, or psychologically.
To prevent the practice from consuming us, I think it’s important to set boundaries. When it’s the weekend, let it be the weekend to recharge the batteries; if one is sick, leave the emails, texts, and phone messages for someone else to handle or tend to them after recovery; and when it’s family time, put away the work and enjoy that time with what is most precious to us.
What do you do for fun?
Laugh a lot. Seriously, laughing keeps you young and happy.
I also enjoy going for walks with my husband (the bedrock of my sanity), traveling with family to explore new places and meet new people, and hiking with friends to decompress and take in nature’s beauty.
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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