By: Tracey L. Schroeder
The Women’s Bar Association of Illinois was proud to host a hybrid CLE program presented by the WBAI Civil Litigation Committee, titled “Navigating the Cook County Law Division: Trial Essentials from the Bench,” on January 13, 2026.
The program was moderated by Soobin Lee and featured a distinguished panel of judges: Hon. Thomas V. Lyons, II; Hon. Maura Slattery-Boyle; Hon. James M. Varga; and Hon. Patricia O’Brien Sheahan. Drawing on their experience from the bench, the panel provided practical, real-world guidance on jury trials in the Cook County Law Division.
Attendees gained valuable insights into jury selection, trial presentation, evidentiary considerations, and effective courtroom strategy. The judges shared bench-driven perspectives designed to help practitioners navigate the nuances of trial practice and better serve their clients.
The program was offered in a hybrid format, with participants attending either in person at the Daley Center or remotely via Zoom, and attendees received one hour of CLE credit. Following the CLE, members and guests gathered for a networking reception featuring light appetizers and soft drinks.
WBAI thanks the Civil Litigation Committee, the moderator, and our esteemed panelists for making this informative and engaging program a success.
This article was originally published in the WBAI Winter 2026 Newsletter on page 59.