The Illinois Bar Foundation hosted its 2026 Lawyers Rock on March 4, 2026, at Bottom Lounge, 1375 W Lake St, in Chicago.
This year's winning band was Icy Bee, who ISBA Mutual Insurance Company sponsored!
Proceeds of this concert fundraiser benefited the statewide programs of the Illinois Bar Foundation as well as the juvenile justice causes supported by the M. Denny Hassakis Fund.
PC: ISBA
The ISBA Young Lawyers Division (YLD) hosted a Speed Networking and Wine Tasting event on Friday, February 27, 2026, at the ISBA Chicago Regional Office, 20 South Clark Street, Chicago. Young attorneys, newly admitted lawyers, and law students had a valuable opportunity to connect with and receive mentorship from an impressive group of accomplished attorneys, judges, and legal professionals from across Illinois. Conversations covered topics such as securing a first job, exploring various career paths, and maximizing ISBA membership benefits.
Following Speed Networking, attendees enjoyed an evening wine tasting featuring a curated selection of wines led by a knowledgeable wine expert. The relaxed setting provided additional opportunities for meaningful networking. Proceeds from the Wine Tasting supported the YLD Children’s Assistance Fund, which awards grants to Illinois organizations serving children and advancing law-related initiatives.
Take us out to the ball game! ⚾ From February 19–23, 2026, ISBA members and their guests headed to Scottsdale, Arizona, for MLB Spring Training Opening Weekend. The group cheered on the Cubs vs. White Sox and Cubs vs. Rangers at Sloan Park and enjoyed a four-night stay at The Westin Kierland Scottsdale. With a Welcome Reception, live evening entertainment, and a festive Wrap-Up Party, the trip delivered sunshine, great company, and big-league energy all weekend long. ⚾
On Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025, ISBA members gathered for the Member Appreciation Reception during the Joint Midyear Meeting at the JW Marriott in Chicago. Guests enjoyed an evening of food, drinks, and lively entertainment, highlighted by several spirited rounds of Glo Bingo.
On February 10, 2026, the Illinois State Bar Association was honored to support and sponsor the special reception celebrating Justice Mary Jane Theis upon her retirement from the Illinois Supreme Court. The reception was held at The Chicago Bar Association, 321 S. Plymouth Ct.
On December 12, 2025, the Illinois State Bar Association and the Illinois Judges Association presented a joint CLE program, "The Legal Profession: Caretakers of Democracy," during the ISBA/IJA Midyear Meeting at the JW Marriott Chicago.
The ISBA 32nd Annual Agricultural Law Seminar took place on February 6, 2026, at the Doubletree by Hilton in Bloomington, IL. Hot discussion topics included the unique challenges facing Illinois farmers and landowners, how to advise farmers in financial distress, and the state of Illinois’ farm economy.
The Illinois State Bar Association (ISBA) and the Illinois Judges Association (IJA) co-hosted a luncheon during the 2025 Joint Midyear Meeting on Friday, Dec. 12, 2025, in Chicago.
On Friday, Dec. 12, 2025, ISBA members attended the All Bar Holiday Reception honoring the Supreme Court of Illinois at the conclusion of the 2025 Joint Midyear Meeting, which was held at the JW Marriott in Chicago.
Illinois Supreme Court Chief Justice P. Scott Neville, Jr. served as the speaker. The festive evening included heavy hors d’oeuvres, dessert stations, refreshments, and entertainment.
PC: ISBA
The IBF’s Champions Breakfast was held on December 12, 2025, at the JW Marriott Chicago, in conjunction with the ISBA Midyear Meeting, honoring Deane B. Brown, a Shareholder in Hughes Socol Piers Resnick & Dym, Ltd., and Thomas A. Zimmerman, Jr., of Zimmerman Law Offices.
Deane B. Brown received the 2025 Distinguished Service to Law & Society Award. Thomas A. Zimmerman, Jr. received the 2025 Honorary Champion Award.
PC: ISBA