BY: ERIN M. WILSON
Originally Published: ISBA’s Standing Committee on Women and the Law: The Catalyst (October 2024)
It was an honor to chair The Women and the Law Committee (WATL) of the Illinois State Bar Association (ISBA) from 2022-24. Outside of WATL, I am the founding partner at the Law Office of Erin M. Wilson, LLC, a family law firm located in downtown Chicago. Before opening my own firm, I was a partner at a preeminent family law firm where I focused on family law cases, which included divorce, custody/parenting issues, child support and maintenance, domestic violence, and prenuptial agreements. Prior to entering the practice of law, I received my J.D. from DePaul University College of Law and received my B.A. in Psychology and Interdisciplinary Studies from Michigan State University. Outside of the workplace, I enjoy spending time with my two children, husband, and being involved in my children’s public school and Temple Sholom, as well as spending time in Saugatuck, Michigan, and throwing lots of parties for our friends and family.
I am immensely proud of all the events we, together, spearheaded and accomplished throughout my time as chair and years on the committee. First, we held “The Janes Program.” In October 2023, after months of planning and advocating, we viewed HBO’s documentary “The Janes.” We held an amazing panel in which we discussed the Dobbs decision that ended with a networking reception for all who attended. Second, we hosted the annual “International Women’s Day Tea,” which is a way to honor and celebrate International Women’s Day that has grown year after year with sold-out crowds. Third, we created the “Carole K. Bellows—Women of Influence Award.” This award is presented by WATL to two individuals each year that raise awareness to the unmet legal needs of women, advocate for action addressing women’s issues, or promote involvement by women in the legal community at all levels. We continued supporting “Happy Hour in Heels” and FLASH—The Force of Lawyers Against Sexual Harassment—made of leaders from various bar associations. The purpose of Happy Hour in Heels is to bring awareness and advocate to end sexual harassment in the legal profession. These programs create opportunities for guests to donate to WINGS domestic violence shelter, network, enjoy refreshments, and be entertained by our male allies who showed up in high heels! These are just some of the highlights, there are so much more.
None of the events and accomplishments we achieved during my time as chair would have been possible without the hard work and dedication of everyone involved with WATL. I am incredibly grateful for my time as chair of WATL and for all the new paths and faces I was able to come across. I am excited to see how the
Committee will continue to serve women lawyers for years to come. There is nothing WATL can’t accomplish, together, because women supporting women is the most important thing to do!
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