Meet Jody A. Thompson

Q: How would you describe your career as an attorney? 

A: It has definitely been a journey through both the public and private sectors. It started with an internship in the 22nd Judicial Circuit at the McHenry County State’s Attorney’s Office. I worked at both the Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office and the LaSalle County State’s Attorney’s Office as an Assistant State’s Attorney and I was an Associate Attorney in two leading private firms before opening my own practice.

 

Q: What made you decide to get into family law?

A: During my tenure at the Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office, I was a supervising attorney in the Criminal Division. That meant I was responsible for trying hundreds of bench and jury trials. I enjoyed it, but I found my calling when I was appointed to the Kane County Child Advocacy Center. In that role, I started prosecuting cases involving children who were the victims of severe physical and sexual abuse, and it inspired me to continue advocating for children and their parents. I pursued and now maintain my status as a court appointed GAL status, reporting directly to the Honorable Judges of the 16th and 23rd Circuit Courts in child custody cases. 

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Q: How would your peers describe you as an attorney?

A: Fierce advocate, compassionate, empathetic. Although we try to find common ground and opportunities for negotiation, my colleagues know that I don’t shy away from conflict, confrontation, and trial when the situation calls for it. 

 

Q: What is it that makes you want to show up to work every day?

A: My clients and the knowledge that I can help make their lives better. It’s so rewarding to see the transformation from when a client first anxiously walks into our office to that moment when they’re confidently walking out of the courthouse, smiling and able to breathe easily for the first time in a long time.